The Story is still unfinished - By Shamima Sham-Goolfee

Written By: Shamima Sham-Goolfee

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Shamima Sham-Goolfee graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with "The Story is still unfinished," a moving poetic entry that delves into the depths of human emotion. Within the category of Poetry, Shamima's work resonates with those who have faced moments of profound grief and longing. This poignant piece captures the essence of enduring life's trials and the hope for transformation, reflecting the universal experience of seeking meaning amidst adversity.

About the Work

"The Story is still unfinished" offers a raw and intimate exploration of loss and the longing for an unfulfilled life. Shamima weaves a narrative filled with vivid imagery and emotional depth, portraying the struggle between despair and the yearning for change. The poem's contemplative tone invites readers to reflect on their own narratives, urging them to hold onto the possibility of a brighter future despite current hardships.

The Story is still unfinished

Original Submission by Shamima Sham-Goolfee

THE STORY IS STILL UNFINISHED

There are nights when I understand

why some people want to disappear.

Not because they want to die.

Because they are tired of carrying a life

that has become too heavy to hold.

I have had those nights.

When the job that crushes you

and the person living with you makes you question

how much of yourself you can lose

before you stop recognising who you are.

When you come home and the house is quiet.

Too quiet. And then grief walks in behind you.

My father-in-law is gone. That one person I loved the most.

A voice I thought I would hear for years.

Then there is another empty space where a person used to be.

And then there is him. The man I love most.

Living a life, I once secretly imagined would have pieces of me in it.

He’s having second child, another little heartbeat, and another little hand for him to hold

while I stand here with empty hands.

Watching from a distance as life gives him the things my heart

has begged for.

Sometimes that hurts in places nobody can see.

Because I am not only grieving the people I have lost.

I am grieving the life I thought I would have.

The child I haven't held.

The home that never became what I dreamt of.

The love that exists but cannot belong to me the way I once wanted.

The woman I thought I would become.

And some nights, all those losses sit together inside me.

My father-in-law's absence. My broken relationship.

My empty hands. My exhausted heart.

My terrible days. My mistakes.

My longing. And suddenly

the question comes quietly—What is the point?

Not as a plan.

Not as a decision.

Just a thought born from exhaustion.

A moment when life stops looking precious

and starts looking like something I have to survive.

But perhaps that is the difference

between wanting to die and desperately wanting

the pain to stop. Maybe I don't want my life to end.

Maybe I want this version of my life to end.

Maybe I don't need to disappear.

Maybe I need something to change.

And tonight, that thought is small.

Almost nothing but I will keep it.

Because sometimes when life feels worthless,

you don't need a reason to love tomorrow.

You only need enough strength not to give up

on the possibility that tomorrow might give you one.

So tonight, I stay, not because everything is suddenly beautiful,

not because I am healed and not because I know

where my life is going.

I stay because my story is still unfinished.

And somewhere inside this exhausted heart,

there is still a woman who wants to find out

what happens next.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates the diverse voices and creative expressions of writers worldwide. This prestigious platform provides participants with an opportunity to share their literary talents and connect with an audience that appreciates the art of storytelling. As part of this esteemed event, writers explore themes that resonate on a global scale, enriching the cultural tapestry with their unique perspectives.

Thank you, Shamima Sham-Goolfee, for your heartfelt contribution, "The Story is still unfinished," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative exploration of life's challenges and the hope for change is a testament to the enduring human spirit. We look forward to seeing how your story continues to unfold.

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.