Younger Self - By Oratile Mokgojoa

Written By: Oratile Mokgojoa

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Oratile Mokgojoa presents "Younger Self," a poignant poem in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This introspective piece invites readers to a reflective journey, emphasizing themes of self-awareness, emotional wisdom, and personal growth. Through Oratile's evocative language, the poem unfolds a dialogue with a younger self, offering guidance and insight drawn from life’s experiences.

About the Work

"Younger Self" delves into the emotional landscape of self-reflection, exploring the intricacies of human emotion and the pursuit of truth in relationships. The poem's mood is both cautionary and uplifting, urging readers to seek genuine connections and self-love. Vivid imagery and rhythmic verses create a tapestry of wisdom and empathy, encouraging the reader to embrace their journey with kindness and resilience.

Younger Self

Original Submission by Oratile Mokgojoa

Younger Self

Dear younger self, beware of hearts that deceive,

Dishonesty creeps in, like a thief in the night's leave,

Look for empathy's warmth, a gentle, caring hand,

Not manipulation's grip, that slowly takes its stand.

A heart that lies is a weight you'll carry,

I wish I'd known that love is a cage,

Don't let the bars close in, don't lose your way,

Find freedom in truth, and love that's not a weight to stay.

Seek those who lift, whose eyes truly see,

In the dance of affection, let your spirit be free.

Trust in the whispers of your own beating heart,

For wisdom lies deep, where self-love must start.

Embrace your journey, with scars that you wear,

Each bruise tells a story, a testament to care.

Let kindness be your compass, guiding through the fray,

In the tapestry of life, weave joy in every day.

Dear younger self, remember, each dawn is a chance,

To rise anew, to reclaim your own dance.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a platform celebrating diverse voices in poetry and creative writing. Participants from around the world share their original works, offering insights and stories that resonate across cultures. The competition fosters creativity and literary excellence, providing a space for writers to showcase their talents and connect with a global audience.

We thank Oratile Mokgojoa for sharing "Younger Self" with us in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative poem offers valuable insights into the journey of self-discovery and emotional wisdom. Oratile's contribution enriches the tapestry of voices in this celebration of creativity and literary expression.

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.