Unfiltered

In Memory of Mama May

In my mindmap, I have assigned affiliations to everyone. When it comes to Mama Mavis (A.K.A Mama May/ May-May), her association is with food. Therefore, here I will talk about my grandmother and food—two of my beloved.

One of my earliest recollections of my grandmother is from my visits to the bustling Coronation market located in Kingston. There, she would meticulously prepare and sell her delicious creations with an unmatched level of passion.

Throughout my life, I have been fortunate enough to indulge in culinary creations crafted by renowned chefs. However, I must say that nothing compares to the delectable dishes my dear mother prepares. Her gungo-peas-and-rice is one of the most divine and mouth-watering dishes I have ever tasted. And don't even get me started on her heavenly curried goat - each bite is a flavor explosion that reminds me of the true meaning of life. Mama's cooking truly is a gift that I treasure dearly.

During my formative years in basic school, I fondly remember my grandmother preparing me for the day ahead when she could stay home. I can still picture her sitting me down on a quaint blue stool in our cozy kitchen as she lovingly served me a nutritious and hearty breakfast which usually consisted of a delicious blend of oats, porridge, sausage, and egg. She gave me so much oats porridge that I now despise oatmeal, but hey, that was her sharing something with me that she loved; oatmeal.

Mama and I spent hours in the kitchen during my teenage years baking delectable sweet potato pudding and preparing mouth-watering beef patties. She always took the time to give me helpful pointers and taught me the ins and outs of creating the perfect dishes. Even now, whenever I cook these recipes, I feel my grandmother is right here with me, guiding me every step of the way. The memories we created in the kitchen are some of my most cherished, and I am grateful for the valuable skills and knowledge she passed down to me.

Mama and I had a significant age gap of over six (6) decades, so there were many, I mean many, times that we clashed. Despite our differences, food provided a common ground for us to connect, enjoy each other's company, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Mama Mavis played an integral role in my life, imparting wisdom and love that I will cherish forever. Her memory remains a precious and irreplaceable part of my being, forever etched in my heart.

Sleep In Peace, Mama.