1.1. A Time to Believe - Std 8th - Balbharati

Author: B.J. Morbitzer

Genre: Inspirational Poem

Textbook: English Kumarbharati – Class 8

Board: Maharashtra State Board

English Summary

The poem A Time to Believe inspires us to trust in miracles, dreams, and the beauty of life. The poet reminds us that every day is a new beginning and that belief gives us strength to overcome difficulties. To believe is to see the innocence of a child, the beauty of an aging hand, and the wisdom of the moonlit sky. Faith teaches us love, courage, and the ability to “pick up the pieces” after life’s struggles. The poet says that belief helps us cherish life as a gift and recognize that we are never truly alone. Belief fills life with surprises, hope, and possibilities, showing that all dreams are within our reach.

Theme / Central Idea

The poem conveys that faith and positive thinking give meaning to life. Belief provides courage during hardships, hope during despair, and the ability to value the blessings of life.

Word Meanings

Figures of Speech (with examples)

1. Personification

    – “To believe is to see angels dancing among the clouds.” 

   – Angels are given the human quality of dancing.

   
   

2. Epigram 

   – “Everyday is a new beginning.”

   – A general truth expressed in poetic form.

   
   

3. Epigram

   – “Life is a gift and this is our time to cherish it.” 

   – A universal truth like a proverb.

4. Imagery 

   – “The wonder of a stardust sky and the wisdom of the man in the moon.” 

   – Creates a vivid picture in the reader’s mind.

   
   

5. Repetition 

   – The phrase “To believe” is repeated at the beginning of many lines for emphasis.

Rhyme Scheme

The poem is written in free verse – it does not follow a fixed rhyme scheme.

Personal Response Questions (5)

1. Why is it important to believe in miracles?

   Believing in miracles is important because it fills life with hope and wonder. Miracles may not always be magical events but can be small blessings we receive each day. Trusting in them encourages optimism and positivity. Such faith makes difficulties easier to overcome and inspires us to look forward to the future.

   
   

2. What lesson do you learn from the line ‘Everyday is a new beginning’?

   The line ‘Everyday is a new beginning’ teaches us that life always offers fresh opportunities. Failures and mistakes of the past should not stop us from trying again. Each day is a chance to improve, dream, and move forward. This thought gives courage to face life without fear of the past.

   
   

3. Why does the poet call life a gift?

   The poet calls life a gift because it is precious and full of possibilities. A gift is meant to be valued, and life too should be cherished. By living with faith, love, and gratitude, we honour the gift we have received. The line encourages us to celebrate life instead of taking it for granted.

   
   

4. What role does courage play in the poem?

   Courage in the poem is described as an inner strength that helps us “pick up the pieces.” It means recovering from pain, failure, or shock and beginning again. Without courage, belief has no meaning. The poet shows that courage makes belief practical and gives confidence to continue.

   
   

5. Do you agree with the poet that ‘we are never alone’? Why?

   I agree with the poet that ‘we are never alone’ because faith itself is a companion. Belief connects us to family, friends, and humanity at large. It also connects us spiritually, giving us strength in loneliness. The thought provides comfort that guidance and support are always around us.

   
   

True or False (5)

1. The poet believes that life is a punishment.

   → False (Life is described as a gift to be cherished.)

   
   

2. Courage and strength help us rebuild after struggles.

   → True

   
   

3. The poem describes the innocence of a child’s eyes and the beauty of an aging hand.

   → True

   
   

4. According to the poet, hopes and dreams are impossible to achieve.

   → False (They are said to be “within reach.”)

   
   

5. Belief teaches us love and inspires us to live fully.

   → True

   
   

Probable Exam Questions (5)

1. What does the poet mean by ‘Everyday is a new beginning’?

   By ‘Everyday is a new beginning,’ the poet means that life always gives us fresh chances. Past failures should not hold us back from trying again. Each day is a chance to dream new dreams and work harder. The line encourages us to start afresh with courage.

   
   

2. How does the poem show the value of belief?

   The poem shows the value of belief by presenting it as a source of strength and hope. Belief makes us trust in miracles, dreams, and life’s surprises. It gives courage to face failures and rebuild ourselves. It also teaches us to love and cherish life as a blessing.

   
   

3. Why does the poet mention the innocence of a child and the beauty of an aging hand?

   The poet mentions these to show that belief values every stage of life. The innocence of a child represents purity, while the aging hand represents wisdom and experience. Together, they teach us how to love and respect life. The images highlight the beauty of both youth and old age.

   
   

4. What message does the poet want to give through this poem?

   The message of the poem is that life is meaningful only when we live with belief. Faith in dreams, courage during struggles, and gratitude for blessings are essential. The poet wants us to live with hope and optimism. This positive approach ensures happiness and peace in life.

   
   

5. Explain the line ‘Life is a gift and this is our time to cherish it.’

   The line means that life is precious and should never be wasted. Just as we treasure a valuable gift, we must value life. It reminds us to live fully, love deeply, and remain grateful. By cherishing life, we understand its true worth and spread positivity to others.

Appreciation / Reflection Paragraph

The poem A Time to Believe is an inspiring piece that teaches the importance of faith and positivity. Through simple yet powerful images, the poet shows that miracles, courage, and love make life beautiful. The innocence of children, the wisdom of the aged, and the surprises of life are highlighted as sources of joy. The poem is memorable because of its universal message and soothing tone. It inspires readers to trust in themselves and cherish life as a gift. Its relevance is timeless, as it motivates everyone to stay hopeful and strong in difficult times.

About BhashaLab

BhashaLab is a dynamic platform dedicated to the exploration and mastery of languages - operating both online and offline. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Credit Framework (NCrF), we offer language education that emphasizes measurable learning outcomes and recognized, transferable credits.

We offer:

1. NEP alligned offline language courses for degree colleges - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

2. NEP alligned offline language courses for schools - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

3. Std VIII, IX and X - English and Sanskrit Curriculum Tuitions - All boards

4. International English Olympiad Tuitions - All classes

5. Basic and Advanced English Grammar - Offline and Online - Class 3 and above

6. English Communication Skills for working professionals, adults and students - Offline and Online

Contact: +91 86577 20901, +91 97021 12044

Mail: info@bhashalab.com

Website: www.bhashalab.com