That Used to Be Me - By Tenille Petersen

Written By: Tenille Petersen

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Tenille Petersen presents "That Used to Be Me," a profound entry in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative piece delves into themes of personal growth, change, and reflection. Petersen's work captures the essence of moving beyond past relationships and embracing one's own journey of healing and self-discovery. Through her insightful words, she invites readers into a world of introspection and understanding.

About the Work

Petersen's poem is a heartfelt exploration of personal evolution and the bittersweet nature of change. The narrative voice reflects on past relationships with a sense of maturity and wisdom, highlighting the contrast between past and present selves. The imagery is vivid, painting a picture of emotional growth and the realization that one has outgrown certain states of mind. The poem's reflective tone resonates with readers who have experienced similar journeys of self-discovery.

That Used to Be Me

Original Submission by Tenille Petersen

I do not see you that often which with all due respect,

Works perfectly well in my favour.

On the days I do,

In that moment you tense up instantly expecting a response

From the woman you use to know.

I get it!

I will never expect more from you because prediction in you is officially transparent.

I know deep inside I will never be afforded the opportunity to re-introduce myself

And not because time is against us

Or that there are any underlying agendas

But merely because I have genuinely outgrown your state of mind

In more ways than one.

I look at the direction you chose

And it saddens me on your behalf because the pattern you chose,

Is nothing short of a storyline almost similar to the melody you laid out with me.

"The more things change, the more they stay the same"

I know what that means now.

The saddest thing to witness is history repeating itself with no amendments.

At this point, I expected to see you a lot happier

But whatever the case, you deserve to smile.

With all the fancy gifts

And material art she is surrounded by, she is happy.

In her mind, she has it all together with hopes so high

That this is a place called home

And that she is finally settled in working around planning

For a future she paints in her mind

But has no idea that she was never holding the brush...

That used to be me...

All your smiles I see from the position I hold,

All your innocence and just all of you.

I can relate my dear

Because after the while,

The colors start fading and the truth becomes

Something that was never part of the plan, vision or end goal.

I hope and pray that you are able to heal something

That took root long before you and I came to play.

It is so hard getting out of something you are caught up in

But I do wish you all the very best.

My experience with him I would hope,

Prepared him to love you beyond what you actually deserve.

I am so grateful to be a healed woman who just used to be...

You right now.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious event celebrating the diverse voices of writers worldwide. It provides a platform for poets and writers to showcase their talent and creativity. The competition fosters a global community of artists and encourages the sharing of unique narratives and perspectives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Tenille Petersen for sharing her poignant poem, "That Used to Be Me," with us. This piece is a significant contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, and we are grateful for her participation. Petersen's work offers a compelling exploration of growth and transformation, resonating deeply with readers.

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.