The Things We Assume - By Maryam Bhoja

Written By: Maryam Bhoja

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Maryam Bhoja brings a poignant reflection to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her poem "The Things We Assume." In the poetry category, this piece invites readers to ponder the assumptions we make when confronted with the lives of others. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt emotion, Bhoja's work stands as a testament to the power of poetry to evoke empathy and understanding in an often-judgmental world.

About the Work

"The Things We Assume" is a sensitive exploration of the judgments we cast upon others without knowing their stories. Maryam Bhoja crafts a narrative that challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions, using the contrast between a child's dreams and an adult's harsh reality. The poem's evocative imagery and probing questions invite a deeper reflection on our shared humanity and the unseen struggles people face.

The Things We Assume

Original Submission by Maryam Bhoja

The Things We Assume

His hands caught my eye

Dry, cracked and coated in who knows what?

I looked out my window, pondering

He raised his hands, pleading

My mother signalled me to look away

My gaze said… stay

His hands clutched a board… reading “donation please”

Look at his hands… these

the same little hands that held a finger before

Who am I to ignore?

A few years back… the words stayed

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

Unimaginable dreams… within a little boy lived

Slowly… each given up

No child dreams of standing at a red light

We all expect a future… one that’s bright

A little child lived before what you see

Tell me… how different are we?

Perhaps he never chose this ending at all

Yet we dare to judge it… aren’t we all human after all?

-Maryam Bhoja

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar offers a platform for writers and poets worldwide to showcase their creativity. Celebrating diverse voices and perspectives, the competition encourages participants to explore and express their unique narratives through poetry and prose, fostering a global community of literary talent.

Thank you, Maryam Bhoja, for your insightful contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. "The Things We Assume" is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the importance of empathy. We appreciate your participation and look forward to seeing more of your thought-provoking work 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.