Medley of Mercy - By Sharon Tong

Written By: Sharon Tong

Category: Poem #4 (Do read them in order)

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Sharon Tong, writing under the evocative title "Medley of Mercy," presents a poignant and deeply introspective poem as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This poem explores the intersections of grief, faith, and healing, illustrating the profound journey of personal transformation through divine love. As part of the competition's rich tapestry of creative expressions, Sharon's work stands as a testament to resilience and spiritual introspection, connecting the reader to universal themes of life and renewal.

About the Work

"Medley of Mercy" delves into the raw emotions of grief and the quest for healing through a spiritual lens. Sharon masterfully uses vivid imagery and evocative language to navigate the complexities of pain, rage, and eventual solace. The poem's meditative tone invites readers to contemplate their own experiences with loss and the transformative power of faith. It is a profound exploration of the soul's journey towards embracing divine comfort and finding peace amidst life's trials.

Medley of Mercy

Original Submission by Sharon Tong

With nothing left to ask,

You’d think I’d find relief,

But really it’s just a room

With Jesus and my grief

Grief is the price to pay

For choosing to disembark,

But at least I no longer need

To be slow dancing in the dark

Sometimes grief turns to rage

Who wishes we’ve never met,

It wants to drink up the look on your face

When your marrow fills with regret

I scrutinised your psyche

And prayed you’d seek therapy,

But you’re not a Rubik’s cube

Meant for my ministry.

I hate sitting with my pain

What else does freedom require?

Apparently I just have to get through

The first draught of this fire

Then I would endure the heat,

Just enough to put out the flames,

The ones which consumed me

And can’t be contained

I will release the rope

That left abrasions on my palms

I will let the ground catch me

And let this tug-of-war be done

As I swim in my own lane,

Hoping for an Avoidant’s defrost

I’m reminded that vengeance is His

So He might elucidate your loss

The pang I’d hope you’d feel

Just to prove that this was real,

Would not change a thing,

But might soothe my suffering.

Hearts don’t break even

And mine crawls throughout the days,

Wondering when I could exchange this sackcloth

For a garment of praise

Then He reminds me clearly

That He’s never had a downtime;

Says He can love me more in a moment

Than other lovers could in a lifetime

He doesn’t give His heart in pieces

Nor hides Himself to tease us,

He stops at nothing to prove

That He’s for us, not against us

So when I trudge into the unknown,

He causes me to remember

That He doesn’t fall off of His throne,

And has been faithful forever

There is no place that I could run

That He won’t chase me down,

And there is no place that I could hide

That I will not be found

So I will wait by the well

And not let the rocks cry out for me,

Because He is the dawn

Constantly breaking within me

He comforts me in my greatest unraveling,

Ravished my heart and taken me over,

So even if life is everchanging,

I want nothing but to be under His cover

Scars and struggles on the way

But with joy my heart can say,

Never once, did I ever walk alone

Never once, did He leave me on my own

His grace has found me

Just as I am,

Empty handed

But alive in His hands.

Context:

Truly, the Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and works all things for good – ALL things. It’s also no surprise how this all happened at age 33, which is the same age that Jesus was crucified. Indeed, I felt like I was crucified with Him, and had to die to myself in order to restore my intimacy with God. I am happy to announce that my healing has been supernaturally expedited, and this poem was the expression of the beginning of God’s overflow in my life. To God be the glory.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices of writers worldwide. This prestigious platform invites participants to share their unique stories, fostering a vibrant community of creativity and expression. The competition showcases a wide array of genres, providing an opportunity for writers to connect with audiences through their compelling narratives and poetic insights.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sharon Tong for sharing "Medley of Mercy" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work invites us to reflect on the deep wells of emotion and spiritual resilience. We are grateful for her contribution and wish her continued inspiration on her creative journey.

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.