Choosing to live away from parents versus being forced to live away from them
Author: Mariyam Raza Haider
Observing Ramazan, not the fasts
Lifting curtains off traditions in search for reason
Second hand books, first hand stories
Getting to know my late grandfather, through his book collection Last weekend, I decided to wander in my neighbourhood, with only one agenda. Find myself a corner to read along with some breakfast. As I climbed up the hill in Sai Ying Pun, I came across a small cafe, which had just opened and was…
Being perfectly imperfect — Part 1
Childhood lessons in the casteism of perfection Google images “Mariyam has scars on every corner of her face. Count, and tell us how many are there?.. How did you get that scar at the bridge of your nose?.. Oh god, your daily cycling to school has led you to have such a tanned neck, and…
Stars in the water, stars in the sky
In search for the brightest one I used to believe in heavenly skies, with their stars and constellations, for me to gaze. I used to crave to sleep under their watchful eyes, as my grandmother would deck up the courtyard with charpoys. Once by her side, I would describe to her what I saw in…
Anxiety, a faith
My journey from being an atheist to a believer “I don’t know how to revel in happiness. In success. I get too scared thinking, what if things turn around bad tomorrow,” said a friend over a call last week. We were talking about a new promotion, new chapters in life, and the reality of things…
Living with a cancer afflicted parent — A Series — Part 45
Growing up and growing old Google Images “Will you discuss with your manager, the dates of your visit?”, Dad messaged me one Friday morning, while I was in office. “Haven’t yet. Probably, tomorrow,” I replied. “I think it’s better you complete your probation period and then plan a visit. Don’t get careless with work,” he…
Understanding life through a cook book
Julie and Julia (2009) On a cloudy Sunday morning, I woke up thinking about going to one of Hong Kong’s famous wet markets to purchase a few vegetables for the week. Living in South East Asia for more than two years now, has made me a fan of vegetables like bok choy (白菜) leeks (大葱大蒜),…
Living with a cancer afflicted parent — A Series — Part 44
Away from home and searching for one Sunset at Victoria Harbour. Hong Kong. Personal collection. “Do you feel at home?,” my new flatmate asked me last night. As I was cleaning the kitchen counter, she sprang the question out of nowhere. I turned around and almost said yes. But suddenly stopped. Do I feel happy…
The love of being away
Personal archive. Hong Kong. The whistling winds by my window, the smoothness of their ice. The greying of those structures around me, through the darkening of the skies. They speak to me freedom. Speak to me life. It is lonely, as my heart lies away. It is lonely, only in a good way. But the air…