Kathy - By Sarah Checketts

Written By: Sarah Checketts

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Sarah Checketts, writing as "Kathy," presents her poignant poem titled "Kathy." This entry in the poetry category offers a glimpse into the theme of service, humility, and cultural connection. The poem intricately weaves personal and communal experiences, drawing from the backdrop of Sri Lankan heritage and life overseas. Sarah's work resonates with those who appreciate the quiet dignity of everyday interactions and the bonds formed across distances.

About the Work

"Kathy" delves into the theme of humble service and the nuances of personal relationships within a household setting. The poem's mood is reflective, capturing the essence of everyday life and the unspoken gratitude towards those who serve. Through vivid imagery and a gentle narrative style, Sarah Checketts paints a picture of routine interactions filled with warmth and mutual respect. The piece invites readers to reflect on the connections that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.

Kathy

Original Submission by Sarah Checketts

Kathy

Service.

Humble service.

Our family over yours,

who are grown and flown,

still back home

working in Colombo.

Sri Lankan bones

through and through,

adults now with

adult children

of their own.

A life you share just through

the phone. Twenty years of

growth, measured in a

month-long annual trip.

You know which day to

wash our sheets,

You know how best

his trousers pleat.

You know where I

keep my underwear.

But all the socks end up

anywhere.

A daily presence, quiet and calm,

delivering a linen basket

with an outstretched arm,

a smile and a ‘here you are madam’.

I give you dates, offer you tea

but still you serve,

and bring samosas for me.

I want to help, to wipe, to sweep,

to fold the shorts, to change the sheets

but when I try you’re out of sorts.

‘Madam, tomorrow I come again,

I do it then’.

Serving us by day

and rest at night.

We appreciate you.

The cushion covers,

throws and sills,

baskets, pot plants,

countertops.

We’ve never had this help before,

‘It’s part of the economy’

long term expats tell.

To us though, it’s something bigger.

A cup of tea and your two sugars.

At the table we chat and

I find about

natural disaster.

Sri Lankan landslides

and how you help

from here.

________________

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating the art of words. Bringing together writers from around the globe, the competition showcases diverse voices and stories. Participants engage in a creative journey, sharing their unique perspectives through poetry, short stories, and essays. This event underscores the power of literature to bridge cultures and inspire understanding in a global context.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sarah Checketts for her thoughtful contribution, "Kathy," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work enriches the tapestry of voices and stories shared on this platform. We appreciate Sarah's insight into the themes of service and cultural connection, and look forward to seeing more of her poetic expressions 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.