Today, we took my mother to the hospital for her vaccination against COVID-19. As she is not mobile at all without assistance, we took Shalini, the young woman who is her 24-hour companion-cum-helper for the last 15 months, along. Shalini has been a blessing in many ways as my mother needs assistance with even simple movements, Over and above her work, which she attends to diligently, she keeps my mother entertained with her conversation. She has a gentle manner about her, and is able to remain cheerful even when my mother is occasionally short with her. Between my mother and me, we have taught Shalini to knit, crochet and embroider. She has also learnt to read and write English. As a part of our household, Shalini helps with chores around the house like anyone living in our house, and this was especially useful in the days during the lockdown when no external help was available.
Today in the hospital, while Shalini and I hovered around my mother, the nurse walked up to us. As she checked my mother's blood pressure she asked how we were related to her. Even before I could answer, Shalini promptly replied, 'She's my Ajji (grandmother)', and then looked up at me. I smiled back at her, and she looked very pleased. The lower part of my face was covered by a mask, and I can only hope that my eyes showed my smile, and how touched I was by her reply.
Having listened to many acquaintances talking about how they treat their household helpers as members of the family, I cringe at making that statement. As far as I am concerned, we have a professional working relationship in which we treat other with respect and dignity. Shalini has talked several times about how peaceful her life is now and how she has never been happier in her life, and I am truly happy for her. She has also made my life much easier and I am thankful for that. Her quick reply made me feel glad that we were doing something right.
