A Sincere Heart, A Watchful Eye Poem by Shahzada Imtiaz Ali

I care too much, I give too deep,
While others smile and secrets keep.
I hold my friends in heart so wide,
Yet day by day, I'm hurt inside.

They say to me, "Be kind, but wise —
Let love stay soft, keep open eyes."
But even with my vision clear,
The ones I love just disappear.

Each dawn I rise with hope anew,
To walk the path of what is true.
I bind my soul with threads of grace,
But shadows fall on every face.

I make a vow, "Today I'll stay,
Loyal in heart, come what may."
But when I stretch my hand to give,
The world reminds me how they live.

My loyalty, a silent flame,
But silence echoes back my name.
I choke my truth, I mask my tears,
And walk alone through silent years.

Oh, this heart—too soft to lie,
Still beats with dreams that never die.
Yet wisdom knocks with every scar,
'Be who you are — but guard your star.'

So here I stand, not broken down,
No longer fooled by smile or frown.
A heart that's pure, an eye that sees,
A soul at war, but still at peace.


Dr. Shahzada Imtiaz Ali
17th June 2025