Becoming A Warrior - By Shajaa Abdul Rahim

Written By: Shajaa Abdul Rahim

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Shajaa Abdul Rahim presents "Becoming A Warrior" in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. This evocative piece explores the journey of transformation and self-empowerment. The poem delicately unfolds a narrative of letting go, discovering inner strength, and the evolution from being protected to becoming a protector. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Shajaa captures the essence of personal growth and the courage to embrace change.

About the Work

"Becoming A Warrior" is a poignant exploration of the themes of courage and self-realization. Shajaa Abdul Rahim crafts a narrative where the protagonist transitions from being a protector to recognizing the strength within another. The poem's mood shifts from protective to liberating, illustrating a journey of empowerment. Through its expressive language and imagery, the poem conveys a powerful message about growth and finding one's own path, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.

Becoming A Warrior

Original Submission by Shajaa Abdul Rahim

Becoming A Warrior

I used to be her hero,

her knight in shining armor,

her bodyguard against what threatened her.

Or that's what I thought,

that she needed me,

to survive, to be safe,

to be happy, to be okay.

Cause I warded off danger,

what could harm her,

and preserved her respect,

esteem and honour.

Made sure risk never came near,

and danger never found its way here.

With me, she was safe.

With me, she was protected.

Or that's what I thought,

until I heard her yelling into her pillow,

that she hates me,

and she wants me gone.

Cause there were things I couldn't do for her.

Cause there were things she couldn't do with me.

With me, she doesn't strive,

she doesn't fight,

she doesn't grow.

I kept courage at bay,

never let confidence find its way.

Gone were the days she needed me to be safe,

now she fights, unshaken by failure.

It was high time I took a back seat,

so, I did.

And she shone,

brighter than the rays on the sun at dawn.

Now she's strong,

doesn't need me to keep her safe.

For in bravery, she now defines herself.

She now fights battles I never let near.

The hero is not me but her.

Hence, I shall step aside.

And let courage replace me on the front.

I know now, I'm no longer her saviour.

Cause now, she herself is a warrior.

Sayonara, my bravest warrior.

Yours,

Fear.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform that celebrates literary creativity worldwide. It invites participants to share their unique voices and stories across various categories, including poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing. The competition aims to foster a global community of writers, encouraging diverse expressions and narratives that resonate with universal themes and individual experiences.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Shajaa Abdul Rahim for sharing "Becoming A Warrior" with us as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution beautifully encapsulates the journey of finding inner strength and courage. We appreciate your participation and look forward to witnessing more of your creative endeavors.

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.