Turning Tables - By Tenille Petersen

Written By: Tenille Petersen

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Tenille Petersen graces the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 with her reflective piece, "Turning Tables." This poem, submitted in the poetry category, delves into themes of karma, self-discovery, and emotional resilience. Petersen invites readers to the metaphorical Karma Cafe, where life's tables turn without a menu, reminding us that we are often served what we deserve. Her work offers a profound exploration of the lessons life imparts, wrapped in elegant verse and introspective thought.

About the Work

"Turning Tables" by Tenille Petersen offers a contemplative meditation on the inevitable cycles of karma and personal growth. The poem's mood shifts from a serene acceptance to a powerful realization of self-worth, all while maintaining a lyrical grace. Petersen's use of vivid imagery and metaphor creates a tapestry of emotions, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of justice, forgiveness, and inner peace. Through her poetic lens, we are reminded of the beauty found in life's unpredictable journey.

Turning Tables

Original Submission by Tenille Petersen

Welcome to the Karma Cafe.

There are no menu's here.

You will get served what you deserve...

I prayed that some day when the truth is revealed

And the tables turn, that I am no longer seated there.

I have no interest in helping karma take its course,

Nor am I interested in treating them the way they treated me.

Five years and counting...

What a beautiful, chaotic period of priceless lessons learnt.

Literally sacrificing my heartbeat for what my heart, beated for.

My very own haven to call home.

A place to hide when the world seems wild and cold.

Right before my eyes,

Witnessing the structure erect according to my every prayer.

Total gratitude for the unfolding thereof.

There was a sudden knock at the door.

As I opened... Locking eyes with uncertainty.

A clear view of the bright smile of suspicion.

Every effort to redirect its path

But the sound of the adamant knock became louder with each move.

The hindsight bias is one of the most prevailing fallacies of all.

We can aptly describe it as the "I told you so" phenomenon.

In retrospect, everything seems clear and inevitable.

The battle for acceptance was internal.

Collecting different colours of sugar cubes to decorate a canvas

That could only be viewed on screens of blurry truth.

Basking in confusion with all strange happenings around me

But with no firm grip on anything tangible.

The lack of knowledge concerning all your concoctions,

Evil intentions and consultations.

Foreign vernacular over me because it comforted you that I would stay ignorant forever.

I now find comfort in the lack of revenge.

It was never my battle to take.

You downplayed the strength and protection of my ancestors.

I entered a scary dungeon of knowledge I had no idea existed.

Now I am afforded the position of a priestess, snacking on popcorn;

Lights dimmed with surround sound...

Being afforded the opportunity to watch all your moves backfire.

I have learnt not to sacrifice my peace

Trying to point out someone's true colours.

Lack of character always reveals itself in the end.

With love from a pure heart:

"Dear fellas... Pay attention to the way you hurt these females,

So you'll know how to comfort your daughters later"

Let her in on the cafe with no menus.

They've moved the furniture, north facing.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, serves as a vibrant platform for writers and poets worldwide to showcase their creative expressions. This annual event celebrates diverse voices and offers participants the opportunity to share their literary talents with a global audience. The competition highlights the power of words to inspire, provoke thought, and connect individuals across cultures.

We extend our warmest thanks to Tenille Petersen for her poignant contribution, "Turning Tables," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work captivates and challenges readers to ponder the deeper aspects of life's journey. We look forward to seeing how her poetic voice continues to evolve and inspire.

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.