Make way for Piya's first 'Chapati'

 Dear Piya,

After a long break from writing to you, yet again, it is only fair that I begin this letter with some adorable memories (the video seems to be in denial when asked to upload...).

This is about the time you made your very first 'Chapati'.

I need to announce a disclaimer, here, my love - I resent the sentiment that dictates women be the cook just because their gender calls for servitude.
While I am hopeful of the era you are living in as an adult to be free from all these biases, sadly, I am living in one that calls for 'gender-equality' to the war-cry.

And amidst all these notions, you, my darling 3.5 year old, made your very first chapati.

It was an exercise conducted in your class, for all boys & girls alike, which made me quite pleased, but not as much as it did you!

You have had a special corner in your heart for kneading dough, since you have known play.
In fact, I could easily alter this sentence to - You have a special corner in your heart for everything that makes a mess - kneading dough, painting (your palms & clothes, more than the paper), applying cosmetics all over your face...you get the drift, right?

So, what was different about today?
Well, today, in addition to pouring the wheat flour more outside the bowl than inside, you actually made a dough.
You then went on to roll different shapes that are a little shy of being called 'rotis'.
And then, you actually cooked these wonderfully shaped & rolled sheets on the gas-stove!

I did assist you with some of the activities, if you are wondering why I subjected a little you to such dangers at such an early age.

But, at the end of it all, today I ate the first bite of what was your labour's fruit.

It tasted heavenly.
As did the happiness on your face for finally having seen one task through, that I have otherwise, almost always refrained you from doing.
Cooking gas is not for play, I always say.

I think I will alter this to saying 'How about we do it together?' from now on.

After all, I don't want you to miss out on experiencing activities you like (the ones that are not harmful if assisted through).
You will grow up to be a fine, young, woman, my love.
Learning to cook is a step closer to becoming the independent, confident woman you are meant to be.


Love,
Maa.