It's a sacrifice to be your child - By Refiloe Khahliso Kofa

Written By: Refiloe Khahliso Kofa

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Join us in exploring the poignant world of Refiloe Khahliso Kofa through their poem, "It's a sacrifice to be your child," a notable entry in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece delves into the nuanced dynamics of familial relationships, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and individual identity within a family structure.

About the Work

The poem navigates the complexities of parental expectations and perceived inequalities in familial love. Through a candid and introspective voice, Refiloe Khahliso Kofa crafts vivid imagery that portrays the emotional sacrifices made by a child seeking acceptance and recognition. The tone is both reflective and questioning, inviting readers to ponder the universal struggle for unconditional love and self-acceptance.

It's a sacrifice to be your child

Original Submission by Refiloe Khahliso Kofa

It’s a sacrifice to be your child

You say you love me and you pray for me.

Do you show it fully or do I only get a quarter of it?

It would be a sign of fair love to share the love equally.

Sadly, one lucky duck gets half, and the rest share the other half.

It’s a sacrifice to be your child

I hear your support, but I don’t see nor feel it.

My goals, my dreams and my wishes, you oppose them all.

You always tell me I can do better than my capabilities.

Can I do me and not you just for once?

It’s a sacrifice to be your child

You compare me to known and unknown outsiders.

I wish you could accept me for what I was, I am and will be.

Don’t tell me about Him and Her and all they have.

It’s a sacrifice to be your child

I fear having a couple of children because of you.

I fear I will not express my love towards them equally.

I fear one will be left to cry while the other beams with joy.

It’s a sacrifice to be your child.

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 participants the opportunity to share their unique perspectives and stories with a global audience, fostering a community of literary enthusiasts and creators.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Refiloe Khahliso Kofa for their captivating contribution, "It's a sacrifice to be your child," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your words resonate deeply, and we appreciate your courage in sharing such a personal narrative.

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.