Reminiscence - On My Retirement - By Lanka Chandani Ranatunge

Written By: Lanka Chandani Ranatunge

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Lanka Chandani Ranatunge presents "Reminiscence - On My Retirement," a poignant piece in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Through her evocative words, Ranatunge reflects on her long-standing career in state service, specifically in the teaching profession. The poem captures the essence of a journey marked by dedication and the indelible memories formed over thirty-seven years.

About the Work

"Reminiscence - On My Retirement" offers a heartfelt exploration of the teaching profession through rich imagery and personal reflection. The poem delves into themes of service, fulfillment, and the passage of time, painting a vivid picture of a career dedicated to nurturing young minds. Ranatunge's eloquent style evokes a sense of nostalgia and gratitude, inviting readers to ponder the transformative power of education.

Reminiscence - On My Retirement

Original Submission by Lanka Chandani Ranatunge

Reminiscence - On My Retirement

Time has come to bid adieu to the state service

Considered honourable many decades ago.

Leaving behind thirty seven long years

Memorable to its core.

Days of yesteryear pleasurable to recall

When your service is meritable for once and for all.

Sweetest are the days to cherish forever

Started the noble profession forgotten never

As it was called by my own teachers ever

Service rather than a profession financially poor,

More for self- satisfaction one endeavours

This is not applicable to today’s contour.

Posted to remote schools miles away from home

To complete the ‘difficult service’ mandatory to all

Kids in their rosy cheeks in bubbling youth-

Yes, kids they were though young or tall

The beauty of teaching they taught me all

In the early twenties of my youth.

“A teacher from Colombo”, heard they mutter

“Teaching English?” I too prefer - Catering the need of the hour

Filled the void what so ever-Music, Dancing, Sports no matter

Holidays were the far- fetched thither- Long hours stayed together

Grumbled never but did the better- A small gesture of gratitude dear

Registered in the faces ever, brightened the day in heartiest pleasure.

Thirty-seven wonderful years passed, almost nearing four decades

A long way my feet trodden, served under-privileged to most privileged

As it’s called the state schools - mingled with all walks of life

Dedicated to the betterment of the kids in this precious land,

Unimaginable, down the memory lane.

Believe that nature has given me the best

Peeping into the days I passed, when the rickety chair

Rocks to my sleep.

Lanka Chandani Ranatunge

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating the written word. It invites voices from around the globe to share their creative expressions in categories such as poetry, short stories, essays, and more, fostering a vibrant community of writers and poets.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lanka Chandani Ranatunge for sharing "Reminiscence - On My Retirement" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her reflections offer a touching tribute to a life dedicated to education and the impact of her service on countless lives.

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.