My Daily Morning Routine

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                                             by: Brenda Lee Nieves
My eyes open and the first thing I see is the tiny holes in my bug net.
I wonder what type of insects are able to get through those holes while I sleep.
I lean closer because I am so focused on this one tiny hole.
I think there's a bug stuck.
Did this little fucker try to invade my fortress while I slept?

Smack Smack Smack.
 Ibu's sandals hit the floor.
I can hear her talking to our neighbors.
Her voice is so much better than my phone alarm.

Beep Beep Beep.
"shit!" it's 6:30 I need to hurry!

I get dressed faster than an Indonesian cat jumping away from people. (that's pretty fast)
I walk into the dining room and there's Bu staring at me with her kind eyes.

 her: Bawa Makan?
me: ya
                     ...the only conversation I have with her.

I really wish I could say so much more

                                         ...like

me: What did your daughter eat when she lived with you?
       I know I don't eat much but I promise I like your food.
This meal reminds me of my mom. I'm sorry I can't look at you in the eyes. I just don't want to cry.

The food is gone and it's time for me to go.

Key? Check.
Bag? Check
Headphones? Check.

WAIT! Saleem.

me: Bu!
 I yell.

her: Bu!
she yells back.

ah humor, how I love you. 
I think to myself.

I follow her voice to the kitchen.
I smile at her and extend my hand.
She places her hand on mine and I bow my head down until my forehead touches her hand.

At that moment, there is one question that runs through my mind.
 Can you tell that I love you?

And when I raise my head and look into her eyes it's like she's saying,
I know.

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