To my sons, Bird and Deal, America is still burning. Do not look away. In less than a week's time we lost a Supreme Court Justice and our sense of justice. We are ruth-less in a world without Ruth Bader Ginsburg and we are ruthless in a world that took Breonna Taylor's … [Read more...] about America is Still Burning.
Dirt and Noise
Rest for the Weary
Last night, I dreamed of police brutality. It is a thing of nightmares, really. For the better part of 15 years I have been a restless sleeper. A good night amounts to five or six hours of sleep, which might explain a lot now that you know this. I used to awaken just to ensure … [Read more...] about Rest for the Weary
Happy 17th Birthday, Bird!
My son is a fierce protector of the proletariat. His brain works in ways I cannot comprehend, and it's no secret he's always six steps ahead of me. To be honest, half the time I nod my head and pretend to know what he's talking about. He is deep. He poses questions that … [Read more...] about Happy 17th Birthday, Bird!
On the Eve of the First Day of School – 2020 Edition
Dear Bird and Deal, I usually write you a letter before the beginning of the school year to tell you what I hope the year ahead holds for you. My feelings are more complex and jumbled this year. Even as a writer, I struggle to put words to my emotions. I can’t quite name what … [Read more...] about On the Eve of the First Day of School – 2020 Edition
2020 Was Our Year for Clarity
This was supposed to be our year. 2020 was the year we all got clear vision. We were going to roll up our sleeves, dust off our auras, hydrate our withered psyches. We had no idea what the universe had in store for us. My family had just landed from a last minute getaway … [Read more...] about 2020 Was Our Year for Clarity
Settle Into Discomfort
Being brown means always being somewhat uncomfortable in America. Many, if not most, of y’all need to settle into your discomfort for a while. Pretend it’s the aptly named La-Z-boy and trick yourself into nestling in, knees tucked under, cup of tea in hand. You … [Read more...] about Settle Into Discomfort
July 4th Isn’t What It Used to Be
The 4th of July has long been my favorite holiday, but it's not what it used to be. I viewed it from an immigrant’s perspective only and marveled at how my parents immigrated to Philadelphia from Calcutta, India with two young children in tow. They built a life here and … [Read more...] about July 4th Isn’t What It Used to Be