Open Letter To My Sweet Cousin In Goa

DISCLAIMER: Most names have been changed for the sake of online privacy.

Dear Philippa, this is an open letter to you. By open letter, I mean a letter expressing my thoughts and feelings about you and the experiences we’ve shared over the years. Do not worry, this will not be longer than a page and I will make it as interesting as possible. So, here goes:

You are one of my sweetest cousins. We’ve known each other right since childhood, though our interaction has been limited. Yet, we’ve always enjoyed each other’s company. Your parents are amongst the most gracious of hosts and your mother is quite close to my father; she enjoys conversing a lot with my mother too. Your father is very enterprising and the atmosphere in our get togethers is extremely lively when he is around. Your brother Charlie is a highly outgoing, charismatic and charming guy who has forever excelled in life and apart from that; a thoroughly warm, gentle and humble soul who goes out of his way to ensure the people around him are always happy. You, a hard worker, someone who has always shone in academics and supported the family at every stage in your life; complete the picture.

Philippa, I’ve seen you in most of the major get togethers my family has been part of; though, as mentioned earlier; we didn’t talk much. Therefore, it has been really good getting to know you more in recent times. If I am not wrong, I think our world views are similar. I am saying this because I have seen one of your old letters to the Editor; in which you called out the then CM of Greenway for his role in the riots of 2001. It was really brave of you to write that piece and I totally admire your sense of social justice. No wonder you became a journalist later on; am damn proud of you! Also, the Emma Watson style haircut of yours didn’t impress me initially; but later on, it grew on me and I felt it suited you truly well – especially with your feminist image!!

I was so happy when you visited us at our home in Mumbai, I guess sometime in 2016. I enjoyed making tea for all of you; one of the rare occasions when I’ve made tea for 6 or more people! My first COVID-era birthday was unforgettable, partly because you and your Mom sent me that beautiful little cake; so sweet of you!! Philippa, I am really sorry I couldn’t make it to your wedding in June 2022; though I watched the entire ceremony through live streaming. I enjoyed the previous day’s reception too, especially the beautiful instrumentals of numerous AR Rahman classics – that was when I came to know you are such a big ARR fan; I too was since my childhood, though from my mid-teens Harris Jayaraj took over!!

You and Dr. Kevin are a truly cute couple, I can see how much he is devoted to you! I also really appreciate that you directly Whatsapped me the invite for your son Nate’s 1^st birthday function. I am glad I came and saw you all; Nate of course is cuteness personified!! Since then, it seems the 3 of you have been having a wonderful time in Goa; your DPs keep getting better and better!! Meanwhile, I am really concerned about your Dad’s health; Charlie too seems to be having his share of health issues – which is surprising given his young age. I hope and pray things get better for both Charlie and your Dad soon. Anyway, I will end on this note – keep that smile on your beautiful face, take good care of Nate and hope to see you soon! “Cousins are friends that will love you forever.” — Constance Richards