Finding Balance - By Lala Law Shing Yee

Written By: Lala Law Shing Yee

Category: Creative Non-fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In a world where chaos and calm coexist, Lala Law Shing Yee shares a captivating narrative titled "Finding Balance." Submitted under the Creative Writing category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece takes readers on a journey through a day filled with unexpected challenges and serene moments. From the mishap of a cut finger to the tranquility of a newfound musical experience, Lala Law Shing Yee artfully explores the theme of balance in life's unpredictability.

About the Work

"Finding Balance" offers a reflective glimpse into a day filled with both turbulence and tranquility. Through vivid storytelling, Lala Law Shing Yee captures the essence of finding equilibrium amid life's unpredictable moments. The narrative is imbued with humor, introspection, and a touch of cultural reflection, culminating in a heartwarming encounter that adds a gentle reminder of kindness and connection.

Finding Balance

Original Submission by Lala Law Shing Yee

Finding Balance by Lala Law Shing Yee

The morning started with a rather “smart” decision while I was trying to cut some bread. Holding a dense, round load packed with sunflower and pumpkin seeds in one hand, I used a bread knife to saw through it, with the blade aimed straight at the web between my thumb and forefinger. It felt like cutting through solid wood. Fully focused on getting a nice, clean slice, I completely forgot how close the blade was until it slipped. Just before I knew it, there was blood on my hand.

During my university days in Kuala Lumpur, I used to have a ceramic fruit knife that cut me for over ten times. I admit that I have never been great at handling knives, and those years had not improved my blade skills. As I stared at the cut, it did not feel like such a big deal. My only concern was that my first ever harpsichord lesson was under two hours away. I grabbed a kitchen towel in my hand, pressed it against the wound, and went right back to prepping breakfast. (For the record, the bread was totally worth it, and for 25% off.)

It usually takes me less than twenty minutes to reach my campus. As it was my first harpsichord class, I decided to leave my dormitory fifteen minutes earlier, a genuinely wise move, as it turned out because the tram decided to stop running…again! It was supposed to arrive in three minutes but ten minutes went by and still no sign of it. When the church bells struck nine, it's a call for another smart decision - to just walk (or run) to campus instead.

So I started walking. Then running. Then walking. Then running. Halfway there, I could not help but laugh. I always thought scenes like this only happened in movies but today I had the privilege to be living it. Google Maps estimated a twenty-four-minute walk, but I made it in nineteen. My dad later joked that I deserve a best athlete award. Maybe he's right, or maybe I should get a “Google Maps Record Breaker” award for beating the predicted time.

When I finally reached the campus, I was drenched in sweet, in a winter! I almost did not sweat at all for two weeks and I certainly had not missed it at all. I entered the classroom, greeted my professor and saw a delicate harpsichord right in front of me. That was my first glimpse of a real harpsichord.

The professor was kind enough to allow me to try the harpsichord for the first time ever during our group class. As I sat down, my right foot instinctively searched for the piano pedal that was not there. The keys felt so light and fragile.

“Do not worry. You will not break it,” the professor murmured, as though he could read my mind, or maybe there was an invisible subtitle hovering above my head. “Play it like how you play the piano.”

I often consider myself a slow learner who needs a few repetitions to get things right. Over the years, many teachers lost patience with my pace. But he was different. He did not rush me, giving me the space I needed to figure things out.

I left the harpsichord lesson feeling very inspired and decided to reward myself with a quick trip to the supermarket. Standing in a long checkout lane with a packet of spinach, I noticed a toddler in front of me. He was staring at me with wide, curious eyes. I felt a little discomfort, wondering if he had ever seen an Asian before or if he also viewed me as an outsider in Australia.

Having faced unkind reactions before, I did not expect much from him, but riding the high from my harpsichord lesson, I decided to wave anyway. To my surprise, he beamed and waved back, prompting an even bigger smile from me. My world paused for a second. It was simply a calming interaction, a perfect way to end the day.

It was funny how such a chaotic day can end so quietly beautiful. From getting a cut, to running a “marathon”, trying a new instrument, appreciating patience and receiving kindness when you least expect it.

Perhaps this is what life really is - finding balance between its messes and its unexpected blessings.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. It provides writers worldwide the opportunity to share their work with a global audience, fostering a community of creativity and expression. This competition is a testament to the power of words and their ability to transcend boundaries and inspire change.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lala Law Shing Yee for sharing "Finding Balance" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of stories and voices that make this event truly special. We appreciate your exploration of life's dichotomies and the poignant moments that resonate with us all.

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.