The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

In youth, I pondered questions deep,

At four or five, my thoughts would sweep.

Money and the homeless, I’d contemplate,

Hoping for a world where all could partake.

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Within my home, a tempestuous scene,

My parents’ volatile bond, often unseen.

Dad, battling demons, bipolar and more,

In the 80s, medication was a scarce shore.

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Two brothers, a sister, younger than me,

I was the eldest, and it wasn’t easy to see.

Distracted at school, bullied by my peers,

A lonely path through those formative years.

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But loyalty was my shield, to warmth I’d cling,

Finding solace in family, in them, I’d sing.

Afraid of violence, a fear deep in my heart,

I’d often bear witness, it tore me apart.

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I’d cry myself to sleep, in the dead of night,

Protecting my siblings, a constant fight.

In the face of chaos, I’d often take flight,

Feeling like a loser, in the darkness of night.

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In my teens, I forged a defensive shell,

Louder, confident, arrogance, my story to tell.

But that mask I’ve discarded, tossed it aside,

I’d rather be me, uniquely, with pride.

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Amidst depression’s shadow, anxiety’s storm,

I battled demons, my spirit worn.

Suicidal thoughts, a haunting abyss,

A darkness so deep, I yearned for bliss.

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Yet, my love for fashion, for fragrance and tech,

Accessories like watches, my spirit would deck.

Helping those in need, reading people’s hearts,

Empathy my compass, where kindness imparts.

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In the practice of Islam, I strive each day,

A path of faith, guiding my way.

Looking after others, a gift I possess,

A compassionate soul, in a world of duress.

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Through trials and tests, I’ve come to see,

Resilience and kindness, the essence of me.

In the tapestry of life, my threads intertwine,

A portrait of compassion, in my heart’s design.

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I’ve battled the darkness, emerged from despair,

Found hope in the love that others would share.

Though shadows may linger, my spirit’s still strong,

With kindness and faith, I’ll keep moving along.