The Pain of a Parent - By Yanga

Written By: Yanga

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the evocative poem "The Pain of a Parent," Yanga delves into the profound themes of parental sacrifice and divine understanding. As part of the Poetry category in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece invites readers to reflect on the complexities of parenthood and the unspoken trials that accompany it. Through expressive language and vivid imagery, Yanga captures the essence of what it means to give selflessly while seeking understanding.

About the Work

Yanga's "The Pain of a Parent" explores the intricate dance between sacrifice and gratitude. The poem weaves a narrative of a parent's eternal love and the pain that often goes unnoticed. Its poignant tone and spiritual undertones challenge readers to contemplate the depths of parental compassion and the divine parallels it draws. The work is rich with emotion, prompting an introspective journey into the heart of family dynamics and spiritual reflection.

The Pain of a Parent

Original Submission by Yanga

The pain of a Parent

there are many things to be grateful for.

I gave you more yet you complain about being full.

In the mundane, life knows and guides you yet you’re convinced asking why is wiser than what's Mine.

that your invention is greater than what I ask you to mine.

You'll never grasp My pain...!

even when you have shadows of it in birthpain, financial strain, through teenagehood terrain no experience can exactly teach, like really teach you of My way.

How My heart had to cycle heartbreak from My children who honour Me just for a season.

I authorized all beginnings by being your curse,

Carried you in My hands got dirty as I cleansed

All you see is a giver of rands

You are committed to misunderstanding Me,

Veiling what is made plain for you to see,

you expect Me to be ecstasy, not your highness

your bow isn't worship, you are a high mess

Your praise is delusion to somehow fix Me

You command in your role

because you think it's a weakness to kneel

So I give you children so they teach you a shadow of how I feel when I pay rent

for your breath but not have rights to vent.

In parenthood My agony and love will leak

A paradox you must carry with humility to seek

My patience for you will be as clear as day

My tied hands you’ll understand as your grip becomes weak and your child numbs as clay

the pain will pay,

suddenly your prodigal voice I will hear as you pray, your feet will learn to stay,

you’ll love even the stain, it’ll rain it’ll pour as your children in your face will hail but in Me you will remain,

you’ll finally understand My wax and wane

In giving you everything and nothing seems to be enough.

In wanting you to be better and yet you remain the same, you will understand My wax and wane...

says the Lord...says the Father.

Yanga macozoma

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar provides a platform for writers worldwide to showcase their literary talents. Celebrating diverse voices in poetry, short stories, essays, and creative writing, the competition fosters a community of creativity and expression. Participants are encouraged to share their unique perspectives and contribute to the rich tapestry of global literature.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Yanga for sharing "The Pain of a Parent" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your contribution enriches our understanding of the sacrifices and emotions inherent in parenthood. We are grateful for your participation and look forward to seeing more of your profound insights in the future.

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.