Life Tapestry.

Life Tapestries | Intentional Living, Faith, & Creative Reflection

Tag: sisters

  • One quirky eating habit of my family!

    Bloganuary writing prompt
    Write about a few of your favorite family traditions.
    View all responses

    While it might not appear realistic to others, our family has a unique and somewhat whimsical tradition when it comes to our eating habits, particularly with Chicken or duck curry. Regardless of the style or cuisine, my mom consistently reserves the bottom or tail part of the chicken for herself. The gizzard with the intestine is exclusively served to my dad, unless, of course, he’s in the mood to share with the rest of us.

    This tradition holds a special significance for us, and when all the siblings are present, a specific allocation is made. The drumsticks find their way to the two younger sisters, while the wings are designated for my brother and me. The reasoning behind this division remains unclear to me. Perhaps it’s an inadvertent way to ensure that each family member receives a portion of meat in accordance with our age differences, or maybe it’s simply a quirky tradition that has evolved over time.

    Regardless of its origins, I’ve grown accustomed to and, in a way, developed a fondness for this practice. There are moments, however, when I can’t help but envy my dad for consistently enjoying what is arguably the best part of the meal.

  • What Christmas is to me!

    Today is the 23rd of December, and 18-20 years ago, my siblings and I were filled with excitement as Christmas approached. It was a time when we could celebrate at home with our parents, indulge in delicious food, and adorn ourselves in new dresses. The festivities included eagerly anticipated afternoon games where we received prizes and the frequent treat of Gur Chini (jaggery) every few hours.

    Our parents, however, were seldom present at the community ground festivities. My mom was occupied with church and community work, while my dad had his own responsibilities, making appearances during the celebration quite rare. We found solace with our second and third aunt (yet third Aunt won’t be there this year at the community ground, as she is in a better place now), who took care of us, treated us to local delicacies like Sinju, and occasionally bought special treats from the shop.

    Despite not having the opportunity to wear fancy dresses or join our friends, the bond between my sisters and me strengthened. I took on the role of the big sister, responsible for their well-being in the absence of our parents. Occasionally, our peer groups would ridicule us for not being part of the larger group or not dressing as smartly. This, along with mom’s peculiar restrictions, further distanced us from our peers.

    This Christmas tradition continued until I started my degree studies. Since then, my participation in the festivities dwindled due to exams, short holidays requiring expense savings, and later commitments in the workplace. Initially, I didn’t mind being away during Christmas, but as time passed, I started feeling homesick and longed to be with my family.

    This year, being far from home, I anticipate spending most of my time inside the four walls of my room. My prayer is that, regardless of our locations, we will welcome Christ into our hearts and let His presence dwell within us. May we learn to submit to His care and be instruments of His love, no matter the circumstances. I extend warm wishes to everyone for a Merry Christmas.

  • The irreplaceable family bond!

    Daily writing prompt
    What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
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    Over the years, I have received countless immeasurable pieces of advice from well-wishers, family, friends, teachers, and even small children around me. All of these have played a role in shaping who I am today, and for that, I am truly grateful. Recently, I received a piece of advice from my mom, that I quote, “No matter how reserved or seemingly unhelpful your parents may appear, or how irritating and immature your younger siblings can be, it’s important to remember that they are always your parents and siblings. The purpose that each of us has been given in life is not merely for show. There will come a day when you may regret not being kind to them, but dwelling on those regrets will be as futile as crying over spilled milk. Therefore, it is advisable to forgive and forget, guiding one another toward the right path so that we can all progress together.”

    It often appears deceptively simple and at times illogical; however, upon careful contemplation, I have come to realize that I have not maintained a strong connection with my family. Conversely, they may struggle to comprehend my perspective. There exist countless excuses and reasons for my failure to fulfill the roles of a loving daughter and elder sister. The notion of thriving in solitude has entirely disappeared from my vocabulary, as today, the sense of ‘we’ dominates my thoughts. I am eternally grateful to my mother for imparting the best piece of advice to me.”