The Strange Thing About Growing Up - By Divya Moodley

Written By: Divya Moodley

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Explore the poignant reflections of Divya Moodley in "The Strange Thing About Growing Up," her heartfelt poetry contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. In this evocative piece, Divya delves into the quiet, almost unnoticed passage of time and the bittersweet nature of growing up. Her work captures a universal theme that resonates deeply, reflecting on the subtle changes that signify the end of childhood and the beginning of adulthood.

About the Work

Divya Moodley's poem is a tender exploration of the unnoticed nuances of growing up. The work is rich with imagery, evoking a sense of nostalgia and contemplation. It gently guides the reader through the small yet significant changes that mark the passage of time. Her literary style is reflective and introspective, encouraging us to cherish the present moments before they quietly slip into the past.

The strange thing about growing up

Original Submission by Divya Moodley

The Strange Thing About Growing Up

Nobody tells you

that growing up happens quietly.

There is no morning

when you wake up older.

No bell rings.

No one announces

that yesterday was the last time

you would ever be that version of yourself.

It happens in little things.

The shoes that suddenly don't fit.

The bedroom that starts feeling too small.

The games you stop playing

without deciding to stop.

One day you realise

you haven't watched that childhood movie

in years.

One day your parents

look a little older

than you remember.

One day you hear a song

from when you were seven

and somehow you are standing

in two years at once.

I think that's the strangest part.

We are always leaving somewhere

without knowing we're leaving.

So maybe I want to be more careful

with ordinary days.

The drive home.

The jokes at the dinner table.

The friend who makes me laugh

until my stomach hurts.

Maybe I want to notice

the sunlight on my bedroom floor

before it becomes a memory

I wish I could return to.

Because childhood doesn't disappear

all at once.

It slips away

one ordinary Tuesday at a time.

And perhaps growing up

isn't about holding it back.

Perhaps it is learning

to love each moment enough

to let it become the past.

To wave goodbye

without wishing

you had never said hello.

And when I look back someday,

I hope I don't only remember

the big things.

I hope I remember

how it felt to be here.

Because right now,

without knowing it,

I am living

someone's favourite memory

of me.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the art of words. This competition aims to unearth diverse voices from around the world, providing a platform for poets and writers to share their unique perspectives and stories. It fosters a rich tapestry of creativity and expression, inviting participants to contribute their work to a global audience.

Thank you, Divya Moodley, for sharing "The Strange Thing About Growing Up" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your reflective piece offers valuable insights into the beauty and complexity of life's transitions. We appreciate your contribution and look forward to witnessing more of your poetic journey.

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.