The Red Balloon
May 26, 2024
Mini - the MAA
Maa, I salute you. Salutation, greetings are too small in comparison to the efforts you put in every minute. A child/ children in a family, neighbourhood, close associates all understand the love, affection, care that Maa provides.
Mini, knows how and what to do. All look forward to return, reward or gift. Mini’s love is selfless. She works tirelessly day and night. She is like a nurse, whom the Almighty has sent to serve all. Florence served in the hospital during the war. Dimples in the cheek, rosy lips and a small smile.
Pastry, cakes, pancakes, chapatis, sandwich, coffee, milk. Is it menu one has to choose for a meal? Breakfast, lunch or tea. Dinner is served. PLEASURE. Mini is a foster mother. History is full of examples of foster mothers. Mini has read History, Literature, Geography. She has taught children. A retired lady, hospitality is in abundance.
Superficial or real she can read and judge.
Stitching, knitting, needlework... Come what may, Mini is busy. Weekend or week day.
No shouting, no cribbing or grumbling. One wondered!!! Who is she ?? MAA. Full of patience, tolerance. Recipes after recipes, mixing and combinations. Film and movies she loves to view. She transforms the living room to a kitchen. How many?
Pets, a kitten, pup, birds, dolls. Oh!! MAA. Yes, Mini knows best what has to be done.
Friends, associates all know she is a good human being. Cards carom, storybooks! She knows how to keep busy. Mini, dressing sense is superb. Long skirt, tee-shirt, very colourful! Parties or dinners, in-house or outings, very sombre. MAA to all!
Model of sacrifice. Adopt or reject. It is for the readers to judge. An open ended story.
Yashoda or Meera, the historical or mythological character. MAA’s love has no boundaries.
Suman Sharma
Suman Sharma is a retired Professor, Head of Department of English, Government College, Ajmer. She enjoys participating in sports activities, reading, writing, singing and dancing. She aims to give back to the society which has helped her achieve her goals and dreams.