52

IVORY

After washing my face that morning, I put on a pair of flip flops I had brought along with me and found my way to the front yard where Mama was sweeping. I watched her move the dried palm branch and was totally intrigued.

"Let me help you, Mama," I offered, walking up to her.

She smiled and nodded, letting me take the fronds. With one swift sweep, I scattered the dirt she had gathered. She burst out in laughter. She was like Jide, finding my ignorance quite amusing.

"Come on, Mama. You should know this is my first time," I cajoled her.

She smiled sweetly. "Let me...