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Taj Taher 1

Put Yourself Out There


Last Sunday I curiously found myself attending a birthday brunch for a seventy year old
woman. I was expected to address her as Nanu, Bangla for grandmother, even though we
were not blood relatives. Despite the discrepancy in age, familiarity, and the fact I had reluctantly
agreed to attend only after my mother forcefully insisted I do so, I wound up thoroughly
enjoying my afternoon with Nanu.
Though it was her birthday, Nanu seemed more concerned with my happiness. She piled
plentiful portions onto my plate, ignoring my protestations that I surely could not eat thirds (I
managed). We spoke about my classes and aspirations, hearing which she beamed and said Im
so proud. As we sang Happy Birthday and she regarded us, her eyes glowed with more than
reflected candlelight. When bidding me farewell, she hugged me tight, whispering Im so
grateful you came.
Perhaps it should not be surprising that unconditional hospitality and warmth elicits
fondness and friendship, but that it happened in mere hours was astounding. I only wish I had
given her as great a gift as she gave me, she who I now call Nanu not in convention of custom,
but in expression of endearment.

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