A Mother's Epiphany - By Diana Saad

Written By: Diana Saad

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Diana Saad, a gifted poet, brings forth a profound exploration of maternal love and personal growth in her moving piece, "A Mother's Epiphany." Presented as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this poem delicately weaves themes of reflection, gratitude, and the transformative power of life's challenges. Through her eloquent verses, Diana invites readers to consider the ways in which hardship can shape and deepen our capacity for love and guidance.

About the Work

In "A Mother's Epiphany," the poet reflects on the paradox of learning through loss and adversity. The piece is imbued with contemplative imagery and a tone of gentle revelation. Through a series of rhetorical questions and poignant observations, Diana Saad captures the essence of a mother's journey towards understanding and acceptance. Her work is a testament to the resilience of the human heart and the quiet strength found in embracing one's past.

A Mother's Epiphany

Original Submission by Diana Saad

Title: A Mother’s Epiphany

Would I have known how to love you

if I had never known neglect?

Would I have known what to teach you

if I had not missed so much myself?

Would I have known how to protect you

if I had never carried these wounds?

Would I have known how to guide you

if I had not walked through hardship?

Today, I watched you –

small hands holding big moments,

standing where the lights found you.

We arrived early,

not because we had to –

but because I once learned

what happens when we don’t.

I taught you to wait,

to rehearse once more,

to listen,

to honour the people around you.

And as I spoke,

I heard echoes of a younger me –

the one who didn’t know,

the one who stumbled,

the one who learned the hard way.

Was I too firm?

Did I ask too much?

But then –

I saw your joy.

Your lightness.

Your quiet confidence.

And I knew…

This was not pressure.

This was passing down

What life once carved into me.

There was a time

I asked why-

why abandonment,

why loss,

why pain without answer.

But today…

watching you,

guiding you-

I finally understand.

A human heart does not simply know how to love.

It is taught-

through what we lacked,

through what we lost,

through what we survived.

How else would I know

what to place gently in your hands

if I had never held emptiness myself?

I stand humbled.

Loved, even in my unknowing.

Guided, even in my mistakes.

How small I am-

and how vast,

how merciful,

how wise

is my Creator.

My heart is full.

My gratitude is no longer ritual –

it is breath,

it is being.

And in this moment,

I want to fall in prostration

not from obligation,

but because my soul overflow.

And in this epiphany,

I finally see –

All these while… You were teaching me.

Written by Diana Saad (Diana Nightingale)

Date: 1 April 2026

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diversity and creativity of writers from around the world. This prestigious event provides a platform for poets and authors to share their unique voices and stories. The competition is renowned for its commitment to fostering literary talent and encouraging the exploration of a wide range of themes and styles.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Diana Saad for sharing her beautiful poem, "A Mother's Epiphany," with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her words offer a touching reflection on love and resilience that will resonate with many. We are grateful for her contribution and look forward to seeing more of her work in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.