A Promise of Fire - Poem

Everyone seeks a Bhagat Singh,
But only within their own walls.
My friends, my family,
I offer you a promise—can you do the same?

When wrongs unfold before my eyes,
I may stand against them.
I may raise my voice.
I may fight back.
I may not give in.

If I choose this path, understand this:
I have made this choice after a great deal of thought,
I have weighed its toll on your lives,
But some wounds burn too deep to be ignored.

In those moments—should they ever arise—
Promise me you will not ask me to submit.
I understand if you cannot cheer,
But do not ask me to break my spine.

Do not ask me to look the other way,
To turn my head around.
Do not strip away my identity,
Nor silence my courage when it dares to break through.

Promise me, even if you cannot support,
You will not ask me to betray myself.
Promise me you will let me live and die as me.
Promise me this, and I shall promise you the same.