This is a heartfelt poem about understanding another’s pain and the connection between all people. It tells the story of a transformation—where the speaker, once uncaring, feels someone else’s struggles.
This experience leads to an awakening, showing that empathy is about understanding others and recognizing our own humanity.

When I Became You

I saw you once, from far away,
A nameless face in life’s ballet.
Your steps were slow, shoulders low,
Yet I walked past—I didn’t know.

But fate had plans, both sharp and true,
For one brief moment, I became you.
I wore your wounds, I breathed your pain,
I felt the weight of your cries in silent rain.

Your hunger gnawed, your fears took hold,
The nights were harsh, the winds were cold.
Your laughter masked the hurt inside,
Feeling weary heart, too tired to hide.

I searched for hands, but none reached out,
I whispered for help, yet drowned in doubt.
The world still moved, the sun still shone,
Yet in the crowd, I was stood alone.

And then I saw— myself walk by,
Eyes unknowing, gaze so dry.
Once so blind, yet now I see,
Threads that weave humanity.

So now I pause, so now I stay,
To share the load along your way.
In your footsteps, I have learned,
That love is given, never earned.

No longer “I,” no longer “you,”
But souls that merge like morning dew.
I once was me, but now I see,
That when I became you—I became me.
(Vijay Verma)

Categories: kavita

Tags: #creativity, #emotions, #Empathy, #happiness, #poem, @Inspiring