Friends Like Family

 Dear Koko, 

When I was young I heard these stories of my father growing up with so many siblings and cousins in the same house. They would be running around the village enjoying themselves like there is no tomorrow. My mother's side had similar stories - of festivals and bhai phonta. 

I grew up as a single child but always had cousins around me, at least in the same city. So if it was a birthday or a family function, you would have those familiar faces who you could look at as you were cornered by a pesky relative and they could make you smile from across the room.

Sometimes I think about you and feel such a secluded childhood you are having. Your cousins are in different cities, in different parts of the world. you don't really know them. The other day you tell me, "when we go to Kolkata this time will we visit my cousins?"

"Which ones" I ask. 

"The ones who had a dog named Goochie"

You were referring to a friend's kids. I correct you and you say, "wait she is not your sister?"

I just smile at you and think, what's the harm? Finding a band of friends is difficult and fortunate, and the best part is that you get to choose them and they choose you. We all have faults and they accept you for who you are in spite of them. So I am happy that you have found a group of people who you can build new traditions and memories with, the ones you share similar interests and inside jokes with. 

Each of them have their uniqueness which makes them endearing. Be cautious to keep them close, be fiercely loyal, blind in your trust and be kind to them. There will be times when the world will be cruel to one, or some of you. Be sure that you are their to support. Because at the end of the day, a very wise person said: "when it hasn't been your day, your week, your month or even your year.. but I'll be there for you.. when the rain starts to pour.. I'll be there for you.. 'cause you're there for me too."

Love,

Ma