Peace - By Makhanda

Written By: Makhanda

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the vibrant realm of poetry, Makhanda introduces "Peace," a profound exploration of transformation and inner harmony. Featured in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this work emanates the essence of spiritual and personal evolution. Makhanda's poetry invites readers into a journey of self-discovery, reflecting on the journey from conflict to tranquility.

About the Work

Makhanda's poem "Peace" delves into the theme of personal transformation. Through vivid imagery and introspective reflection, the poem captures a journey from destruction to redemption. The work is rich with metaphorical language, portraying the process of refining one's inner self. The mood is both contemplative and hopeful, resonating with anyone who has sought peace amidst chaos.

Peace

Original Submission by Makhanda

Peace

For the first moment in centuries.

I can feel my feet trusting in the soil upon which I stand.

Though to my eyes it seems I’m surrounded by pillars of salt and burning white ash.

I can feel the fire within my soul made absolute, developed through years of being hammered till the backfire overcame the furnace.

I’ve begun to see clearly, just pulling off the residue.

Pulling scales of skin off my eyes, they can’t understand the truth. though my steel needs to be refined,

I’m continuously designed, by the Master who made the double edged sword which glistens as it slices through the morning Dew.

I used to seek the taste of blood, but now I understand.

The shedder’s blood sheds blood, which then sheds in hand. Kill a man and you’ll live in fear of being killed.

Because you know the value that you took is more than you could ever give.

I was once an instrument of destruction,

But now I’ve found the right master.

His righteousness reforging itself in my hilt with every reshape, every plaster.

The Crossguard he’s given prevents pierced palms from bleeding psalms.

119 times I’d crack trying to walk undefiled in the way. 18 times I’d look back, just for a proverb and 24 brothers in arms

willing to hold the heat at bay.

Yet for every rib cracked, I could feel the heat of the heart. Only one needs to remain, and of me it’s not a part.

Test me and shape me to bring down strongholds in your name. Keep my heart in humility lest I become consumed by fame.

Your strength, the scabbard by which I honour the lamb slain It covers me completely, gave me mobility when I had still been lame.

I fear no evil.

Neither man nor Devil.

And though at times, time itself will rise against me. I have confidence, You can cut through.

This blade which once brought so much war has been repurposed again.

I’ve been refined in Faith

By the Hammer, By Master

I’ve been refined by the BRANCH.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating diverse voices in literature. It invites poets and writers worldwide to share their unique narratives and creative expressions, fostering a global community of literary excellence.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Makhanda for sharing the captivating poem "Peace" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of voices in this literary celebration. We look forward to witnessing how your words continue to inspire and transform.

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.