Another step along the way

Tiger, encouraged by her sisters, bravely stepped out today. Into the hot and humid air, down the damp and crooked steps, over the dense jungly path where the dragonflies feed, and into the narrow village mainstreet. There, amongst the chattering traders, noisy shoppers and wobbling cyclists, she weaved her way. At the junction of the butcher and the bar, she side-stepped the tired and patient dogs, turned left, and reached the Sparkle Shop; the stopping point for tourists and beach seekers drifting their way through banyan tree bay.

Once inside, she and her sisters lost track of time, caressing every pretty thing, losing themselves in Chinese bead, woven threads, and bright pink glitter. Then they walked directly home, chattering all the way. They each showed off to daddy their sparkly handbag, flowery hair band, and leaf-green fish, dangling from a thread. He nodded his approval at each delight and stroked his beard, because he is wise.

I did as I promised, and walked behind my children, following at a distance. Far enough away for Tiger to be without me. Close enough to hear her call. I shadowed them all the way, there and back. In the hot and humid day, I sat outside in the busy market street for an hour and a quarter; the time it took them to spend their pocket money. Cyclists tingtinged their bells at me; shoppers bumped their bags at me, and Chinese ladies who know better than me just looked at me, sitting there, waiting.

And when I reached home behind her, I cooled myself by the fan, drank a glass of water, and thought if I could sing sweetly from the rooftop, I would do that too.