“Dil Se (From the Heart)” Sameera Shaik Poetry
Growing (B)old
Bold breaks the mold; even at 28, there’s still an era to unfold.
But when does an era truly end when there’s always more to unfold?
Looking back at moments that paved my path,
What may seem a mold to some
Was built with resilience and tears,
Sprouting into something truer.
Another flower blooms to honor those before me,
Another lesson rooted in those who broke me.
Never did I think a path built from fragments of wisdom
Could lead me to the truest matters of the heart.
The same heart that has carried me through 28 years,
Allowing me to feel, discover, and root myself in boldness.
It was never about becoming "that girl,”
Not when life is too precious to be measured
By fleeting material or conditional belonging.
Instead, I search for meaning that feels safe and giggly.
This era has been one for unfolding in solitude,
Where growth is inevitable.
Curiosity rises once more–
What comes next after blossoming in solace?
Some may never understand,
Boldness exists in all of us,
Even when our setbacks don’t follow the script.
But who wrote the script?
And why have I followed it as if my worth depended on it?
So, I end this era to heal the confusion,
Where free thought paints my path
Toward patience and balance.
That’s the bold that will break my mold–
Even at whatever age.
Process to Overcome
Real life or reel life
Holding back from stirring strife.
Fears and tears, feeling overwhelmed
Take a step back–it’s just a facade.
Breathe with ease,
Take steps to seize.
Dissolve the fear that weakens us all
Embrace the smear and tear down the wall.
Water the seed to end the bleed
Feeling hopeful, ready to create a creed.
Let go of the ascendant to embrace the joy of abundance.
Like children cheering, carefree–soon, the seeds will blossom.
Envision hope, filled with courage,
Vulnerability like ocean waves in tranquility.
The future is bright, shining toward a path
Rising high as a kite, growing as an empath.
Holding ourselves accountable, away from rife,
Real life growing towards teal life.
cultivating hope
still in hometown
wondering why me
tears of confusion
planting the seeds
rejections and protections
growing my way
unknowingly exploring
my curious heart
if it’s God's will
Dil Se (From the Heart)
These poems reflect the past five years of emotions and struggles, finding my way back to myself to reconnect with and reclaim my identity. They are inspired by old journal entries, navigating impactful experiences and spaces where I found meaning, and an affirmation acknowledged from my Urdu language study experience: Apni Zindagi ki Trailblazer - trailblazer of your own life.
About the Poet
Sameera Shaik (she/hers) is a South Indian-American Muslim woman fascinated by the creative takes of health and belonging. Passionate about mental health and culture, she doesn't let her reserved personality limit her love for storytelling. Forever obsessing over a crispy dosa, soft blankets, and butterfly analogies.
Contact
Instagram: peaceofsameera