A Candle Without a Flame (Poem)

 I waited for candles, for claps in the air,

For someone to show me that they truly care.

I dreamed of balloons, and a sweet frosted bite,

But all I received was a quieter night.

A chocolate in class, a dish made at home,

I smiled with the world, but inside felt alone.

No surprises to open, no wishes to keep,

Just growing up quietly, crying myself to sleep.

Then came a moment, just once or twice,

When someone remembered — that felt nice.

A cake was cut, my name was sung,

But joy, like a guest, never stayed long.

Now my birthday returns like a haunting bell,

A question, a weight, a personal hell.

Marriage or silence — what should I choose?

My dreams or theirs — what must I lose?

But somewhere within, my heart still fights,

For gentler days and softer nights.

Not for parties or gifts wrapped tight,

But to be seen — just once — in a different light.

So don’t ask me to smile if my soul feels sore,

Don’t ask me to marry to prove something more.

Let me be quiet, let me be free,

Let me just breathe and return to me.

💭 Final Words_

To anyone reading this who feels the same — you’re not alone.

You don’t have to celebrate. You don’t have to pretend.

And most importantly, you don’t have to make permanent decisions based on temporary pain.

Your life is still yours.

You still matter.

Even if the world doesn’t see it right now — your soul, your voice, and your truth still shine.