Stamped within the melanin

Stamped within the melanin that flows within our skin

Are age-old stories on survival, resilience, adaptability & community.

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The Sunday cha that brews with its bite of spice

Unlocks a history that surpasses a lifetime

A history passed down from Dadi & Nani to Mum then Me

The ancient blending of spices our very own mystery

~~~~~~

It’s a ritualistic dance of secrets unlocking our roots

Providing that comforting hug today

Its spiral a grounding reminder of the many routes taken to here

Years of history paving the opportunities of now.

~~~~~~

Nutmeg-cloves-cardamom burst with joy

They crisscross and swirl

Mirroring the myriad of ebony lifelines

Sitting proud on our palms

~~~~~~

Our identity

~~~~~~

The aromatic smoke rises

A whisper of a voice reaches out

From time past;

My 2 grandmas

~~~~~~

They say:

“Pinch some masala

Brew that cha

Don’t forget your cinnamon

Brown as the earth,

As you ground yourself

to hush your cry.”

By: @RadsWrites – Radhika Manek