Worn is the Gift that Keeps on Giving - By Othandwayo Skenjana
Written By: Othandwayo Skenjana
Category: Essay
Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026
In the evocative essay "Worn is the Gift that Keeps on Giving," Othandwayo Skenjana delves into the intricacies of familial obligations and the personal struggles of self-identity. This compelling piece is part of the esteemed Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, under the category of Essay. With a profound exploration of emotional weight and inherited family dynamics, Skenjana captivates readers with their introspective narrative, offering a glimpse into the universal challenge of balancing self and duty.
About the Work
Othandwayo Skenjana's essay is a heartfelt exploration of the emotional burdens borne from familial obligations. Through vivid imagery and introspective narrative, the piece captures the weariness of unreciprocated generosity and the silent struggles of self-identity. The work resonates with a sense of melancholy and hope, painting a picture of the paradoxical nature of personal sacrifice and the pursuit of authenticity. It is a poignant reflection on the complexities of family dynamics and the desire for self-discovery.
Othandwayo Skenjana
Original Submission by Othandwayo Skenjana
Worn is the gift that keeps on giving
When I was Younger, I used to wonder why my mother was forever overextending herself for everyone when the gesture was barely ever reciprocated. I studied the worn look in her eyes when her siblings asked her for money she did not have for the third time this week. And although we were barely getting by, she obliged. I pondered on words she did not Say
dddddddddddǯd dd Own. Late at night I would go on my knees, at the foot of my
bed and pray. Pray
on a silent wish that it was not hereditary.
I have always felt out of place. Like I always had to shift, adjust, stifle, and perform around everyone because I was
heavy, not in a
literal sense though, My emotions were too heavy. My personality a paradox of loud and mute. My problems too deep. I have never wanted to burden anyone with that weight.
Idfǯddd dd̵dǡdddabout kill me to give someone else my
role; even just for a minute. So, I slip my mask on, roll up the curtains, and perform.
Because of my pursuit
of playing saviour to everyone from myself,
I am not myself so often that I do not even know who I am. I don't know how to talk about my feelings without having a nervous breakdown. My performance slips, and it keeps slipping My emotions rise, and they keep rising. I'm painfully self- aware enough to know that right now, I am hurting more people than I am saving.
I want to be better. I ǯdwant to push people away. I ǯ want to hurt anyone. But the voice at the back of my head is telling me that I will scare them away, so rather I push them away; that way it will be on my own terms, The therapist on TikTok told me to communicate; so, I strip myself bare, remove the mask, and roll up the curtains.
What happens now that my worst fear came true?
In a deep state of contemplation, I sit across from my mother at the dinner table, and I come to a realisation. A memory in fact. A memory I have not remembered in years, but somehow on this dinner table, on this random Sunday night it comes to mind.
God did not answer my prayer.
About the Competition
The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating diverse voices in literature. With categories spanning poetry, essays, and creative writing, the competition provides a platform for writers worldwide to share their unique stories and perspectives. It is a celebration of creativity and literary excellence, drawing participants from across the globe to engage in this vibrant literary dialogue.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Othandwayo Skenjana for their moving contribution, "Worn is the Gift that Keeps on Giving," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your introspective and poignant narrative offers profound insights into the human experience, and we are grateful for your participation and sharing this journey 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.
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