Wishes for my mother (when I cannot be there) - By Kirsty Jane Brand

Written By: Kirsty Jane Brand

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the poignant poem "Wishes for my mother (when I cannot be there)," Kirsty Jane Brand offers a heartfelt exploration of love and longing. As part of the Poetry category in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this piece reflects universal themes of familial bonds and emotional distance. Through her words, Kirsty captures the essence of connection and hope, even when separated by physical spaces.

About the Work

Kirsty Jane Brand's "Wishes for my mother" is a tender meditation on the enduring bond between a child and parent. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poem conveys a sense of yearning and the desire to offer comfort and love across distances. The work is rich with metaphor and a gentle yet profound message of resilience and the transformative power of love.

Wishes for my mother (when I cannot be there)

Original Submission by Kirsty Jane Brand

Wishes for my mother (when I cannot be there)

I wish that I could pick

every star

from the inky, black sky

and sprinkle them into a bowl of eternity

that you may always and forever

be bathed in their golden, luminous light.

Diamonds of the universe

dancing only for you,

scattering glowing shards of warmth

upon your skin.

You deserve nothing less.

And yet,

instead of stars,

what I can give you is my love

which shines equally as bright,

reaching its radiant tendrils out to you

across the land and sea

that separates us.

An umbilical cord

of unyielding connection,

binding the intricate threads of our souls.

I wish that I could sit beside you

and cradle your hands in mine

when slumber bows its weary head to pain

and the night,

still save for troubled whispers,

awakens fear

upon its ebony tongue.

You deserve nothing less.

And yet,

instead of this,

what I can give you are my words,

cloaked in the promise

that shadow always falters,

fortified in the resilience

and tenacity of hope,

shepherds of wisdom

guiding you to first light,

when the comforting chorus of birdsong

will herald a new resolve.

I wish that I could give you a mirror,

unveiling what your eyes are blind to see.

Awakening you

to the exquisite essence of your being,

dissipating the mist of self-doubt

and the burden of perfection,

laying bare the epitome of sacrifice

and the keeper of my kin.

You deserve nothing less.

And yet,

instead of a mirror,

what I can give you is poetry.

The entwining of thought and emotion

along a vine growing

with gentle revelation.

An artist

breathing life through

the palette of my heart.

Bearing a truth

sculpted by the patient chisel of time.

Carried by a voice

yearning for the sanctity of home.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases exceptional literary talent from around the world. Participants from diverse backgrounds share their unique voices through poetry, short stories, and essays. The competition celebrates creativity and expression, providing a platform for writers to connect with a global audience.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Kirsty Jane Brand for her beautiful contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her poem "Wishes for my mother (when I cannot be there)" resonates with heartfelt emotion and eloquence. Thank you, Kirsty, for sharing your moving and inspiring work with us.

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.