Answered Prayer - By Kayla Raats

Written By: Kayla Raats

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "Answered Prayer," Kayla Raats offers readers a poignant journey through memory and longing. Featured in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece captures the essence of an intimate connection that transcends time and space. Through Kayla's skillful weaving of emotions, the reader is drawn into a world where love and spirituality intertwine, inviting contemplation and reflection.

About the Work

"Answered Prayer" by Kayla Raats employs rich imagery and a contemplative tone to explore themes of memory, unfulfilled connections, and spiritual longing. With a lyrical style, the poem paints a vivid picture of a relationship marked by what was and what could have been. The interplay of sensory details and emotional depth creates a tapestry of feelings that resonate with the reader, leaving an indelible impression of love's enduring presence.

Answered Prayer

Original Submission by Kayla Raats

Answered Prayer

I wake up on a Friday.

A random Friday.

Like any other Friday,

except the morning smells like you.

It clings to my coffee

like forgotten perfume.

I still remember.

Softly.

I caught a glimpse of you,

though you weren’t there.

You smelt like a book

I never got to finish.

You’re a dream I can’t unmute.

A book I never got to finish.

A story that still lingers

between my hands.

You were never mine,

though it felt like it.

So near, too far to hold

in the palm of my shaking hand.

Dated? No.

Talked? Yes.

Feelings? We shouldn’t have.

“Situationship,” you called it.

Your Lilly.

Though it was never my name.

But when you said it,

I forgot my own.

You hated pink.

Yet you bought a pink shirt.

Just once.

My colour became yours.

You kissed my forehead.

Held me a little tighter.

As though you knew

I’d come back.

Find me in our church.

In our seats.

Singing your favourite hymn.

I’ll find you there.

Maybe in a dream.

Maybe in the distant future.

When you’re lost,

I’ll be your light.

Come back to me.

But until then,

whatever happens,

don’t forget me.

To my answered prayer,

you are my Matthew 19:6.

Let’s meet again, even in heaven.

Thank You, God,

for the time we shared.

Written by Kayla Raats

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the power of words and creativity. Bringing together writers and poets from around the world, the competition showcases diverse voices and exceptional talent in poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing. Participants are given a platform to express their unique perspectives and connect with a global audience, fostering a vibrant literary community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Kayla Raats for sharing "Answered Prayer" with us. Her contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices and stories that inspire and move us. We look forward to witnessing her continued journey in the literary world and thank her for this beautiful exploration of love and memory.

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.