Still my son - By Rozita Abdullah

Written By: Rozita Abdullah

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant poem "Still my son," Rozita Abdullah, writing under her real name, delves into the deeply personal and universal themes of motherhood and the ongoing fight against the drug pandemic. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this submission adds a heartfelt voice to the collection of works aiming to capture the raw and complex emotions tied to familial bonds and societal challenges. Abdullah’s piece is a testament to both personal struggle and enduring love.

About the Work

Rozita Abdullah's poem is a compelling exploration of a mother's unwavering love amidst the heartache of seeing her child consumed by the harsh realities of addiction. The evocative imagery and emotional depth draw the reader into a world of despair and hope, capturing the essence of maternal devotion and resilience. The poem's tone is both sorrowful and hopeful, portraying the dual nature of love and struggle.

Still my son

Original Submission by Rozita Abdullah

Still my son (Dedicated to my son, Roesdien. And all mothers still fighting the drug pandemic)

By: Rozita Abdullah

I carried you once beneath my heart, now, I carry you still but torn apart. Not in my arms, but in aching prayer. A mother’s cry that hangs in the midnight air.

Look, you were born with softness in your eyes, oh so timid, gentle, deep and shy.

But this world, ha… so, so, harsh, cold and cruel whispered lies, and played its rule.

I saw your light slowly fade away, in smoked filled rooms, where hope decayed.

Left behind 3 angels, crying, dadda!? And once a love, though broken and shattered. I watched you reach for something, something whole. But again, it slipped and took more of your soul.

Still, I speak and when you don’t reply, “I, I love you son, God loves you more, please just lift your eyes”. But again, you walk away into the dark of night.

You should know I do still see the boy you were and who you’ll be.

You are more than lines, snorting, smoke, pain and shame. More than sleeping in dark damp rooms. More than needles, spacing out numbness in lolli lounges.

You are more than the silence that wraps you tight at night, you are still my son, still worth the fight.

So, I pray through tears and sleepless nights, that angels guard you in the darkest fights. And when you are ready, son, when shame let go, you’ll remember the way back home, the way you know.

To the arms that never stopped believing, to a God whose love is never leaving. To a mother, tired but still holding on, because, you’re still my son, still, my son.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious platform celebrating artistic expression and creative talent from around the world. This competition invites writers and poets to share their unique voices and stories, fostering a global community of creativity and inspiration.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rozita Abdullah for sharing her powerful poem "Still my son" as part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work shines a light on the enduring strength of maternal love and the ongoing battle against the challenges posed by the drug pandemic. Thank you, Rozita, for your moving contribution.

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.