Letter to my South African Indian son

Dear Son

I know you’ve heard that you don’t need to learn to cook and clean because you’re a boy. I want you to know that being self-sufficient is liberating.

I know you’ve heard that you should play with cars and not dolls. But I want you to know that you can play with whatever makes you happy.

I know you’ve heard that you have to work extra hard at school because you are a boy. I want you to know that you should work hard for no other reason than your potential to succeed.

I know you’ve heard that you should stay out of the sun because you will get dark. I want you to know that people who love you will never care what colour you are.

I know you’ve heard that you have to be more diligent in your prayers because as a boy you will carry our traditions to the next generation. I want you to know that spirituality is personal and you can worship God however you want to.

I know you’ve heard it all and more. I want you to know that I’m raising you to be more than just a good boy. I’m raising you to be an amazing human.

Never forget that my love is and always will be unconditional.

Love: Mom