I started drinking coffee as early as I possibly could, around the start of high school when it was determined that I was grown-up enough to start consuming caffeine. I’d always liked the taste, and graduating from my morning drink of chocolate milk (with healthy vitamins!) felt like somewhat of an accomplishment. Just like my parents, I would start the day with a cup of coffee in the morning, and would sometimes join them for their evening cup as well. I always found it funny that in the evening my parents would nearly without fail have a cup of coffee and a few snacks. Even on a road trip, if it was around 6pm, like clockwork - we would find the nearest cafe and have a small rest and a drink. Our evening coffee has always been a time to gather and sit and eat and talk, no matter what we had been doing in the day. It took me some time to connect this to how when we have gone to visit family in India, whether on my mom’s or dad’s side, they carry out the exact same routine. Having been born in America, I always felt quite disconnected from my family and culture due to the language barrier. Having the experience of watching my grandmother pour South Indian-style coffee, or chatting with my aunts and uncles over chai and coffee while some soap opera or gameshow plays in the background, has been an invaluable point of connection. Now, everytime I have a cup of coffee at home or even here at college, it feels like sitting down at the kitchen table, surrounded by family.

– Nitika R

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant