my first masala chai book reading

The first book reading with the Jacksonville Pakistani community that I grew up with.

I was so overwhelmed by all of the love and support that I received yesterday at my first ever book reading. I have to admit that I was really nervous at first to be reading my own poetry in front of the aunties and uncles that I grew up with in the Pakistani community. But I am so relieved and happy that masala chai was actually received extremely well.

Reading my own poems to such an intimate audience was definitely intimidating at first, because of the initial pressure to succeed as a Desi creative. But being able to share the thought processes and personal experiences behind my work was so refreshing. I am so grateful to have an audience that showed a genuine interest in my work and wanted to listen!

I wanted to thank my mother and sisters who made this first event to be so beautiful and successful. It is so touching to have a family that supports my work with so much love and care. My mother hand cooked the entire menu, the cake was designed by my sister Areeba, and Aniqa was in charge of the aesthetics. Luckily, I managed to put my own outfit togehter! You can see how much thought they put behind the reception in these photos:

I am so grateful for 2018 and to everyone starting this new chapter with me. As more of you give masala chai a read, i would love to hear your reflections about your favorite poems and how you may connect with them.
happy new year my friends. 🎉

- eęsu