This poem is a quiet conversation with the self—one that doesn’t judge pain, but honors it.
Each question is a doorway, and each answer is an act of courage. It reminds us that growth is rarely gentle, yet always meaningful.
Did you know yourself?
Did it hurt?
Of course it did.
That’s how truth enters—
unannounced,
without apology.
Did you break?
Sometimes.
But broken things let the light in,
and light teaches us
how to rebuild.
Did you think?
Good.
Your mind chose growth
over escape,
presence over numbness.
Did you cry?
Good.
Your heart refused to harden,
refused to forget
how deeply it can feel.
Did you lose something?
Good.
Loss clears space
for what truly belongs—
for what stays.
Did you care too much?
Good.
Care is never weakness,
only courage
without armor.
Did you pause
and meet yourself honestly?
Good.
Awareness is where peace begins—
not in answers,
but in the courage to stay.
(Vijay Verma)
www.retiredkalam.com
Categories: kavita
Retiredकलम 
Love this about the light and how to rebuild. Looking at your qualities with honesty is something we need to reminded.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. I’m really glad the poem resonated with you, especially the idea of light and rebuilding. You’re right—looking at our own qualities with honesty isn’t always easy, but it’s such an important reminder. I appreciate you taking the time to share what it meant to you.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Growth is only possible through adversity. What does not kill you makes you stronger. It is always good to learn from experience. Have a great day. Allan
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well said, Allan. I completely agree—adversity has a way of shaping us in ways comfort never could. Each experience, especially the difficult ones, leaves behind a lesson that strengthens us if we’re willing to learn from it. Thank you for sharing this wisdom. Wishing you a great day as well.
LikeLiked by 2 people
very nice
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Impact full
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you so much for your beautiful words.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A comprehensive Jewish polemic against the theological foundations of Xtianity and Islam.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much.
LikeLiked by 1 person
How poignantly you unpacked the ways we are human. Each vulnerability is a layer of our humanity. How profound and insightful, Sir V!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you—your words mean a great deal to me. To be seen in that way, where vulnerability is understood not as weakness but as depth, is quietly affirming. If the reflection resonated, it’s because you met it with the same openness it tried to hold. That shared recognition is where the human connection really lives.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Even your reply reads like poetry. More power and passion to you, Sir V!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s incredibly kind of you—thank you. I’m truly glad my words resonated with you. Your generosity in reading and responding with such warmth is power in itself. May your own words continue to flow with the same passion and depth. Wishing you inspiration always.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you very much for this poem. Well needed, and timely.
LikeLike
You’re very welcome. I’m truly glad the poem reached you at the right moment and offered what you needed.
Thank you for sharing that—it means more than you know. Wishing you steadiness, comfort, and light as you move forward.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love every line of this poem, it just speaks to me 🫠
LikeLiked by 1 person
That truly means a lot—thank you. I’m so glad the poem spoke to you on that level. Knowing it resonated and found a place in your heart is the greatest gift a writer can receive. I appreciate you sharing that feeling so warmly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good poem with a new type ie question and answer.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, dear.
I am glad this poem resonated with you.
Your words mean a lot.
LikeLike