A week ago today, Rahul and Leila’s Teta (Arabic for grandma) returned home after a quick week-long stay with us in Chengdu.
In between early morning whines Leila asked, “Where Teta Mama?”
“She’s in Lebanon baby.”
“Waaaah, where Tetaaaaa Mamaaaaa?”
“Rahul love Teta. Rahul love Teta Mama,” he said.
———————-
While having her diaper changed half an hour later, Leila said:
“Teta said, ‘Je t’aime’ mama.”
Published by natasha devalia
Author Poetry and Art books: ‘Tears and Grape Seeds’ 2025, ‘one touch of the rope’, 2024 and ‘Unseen Veins’, 2023
Zambian of South Asian descent, living in Thailand.
I write poetry, perform, and I’m currently an MFA (painting) student. The themes of my art whether expressed through movement, poetry, painting or as interdisciplinary forms include identity, belonging, mental health and family life.
View all posts by natasha devalia
Natasha Devalia 