10/05/2022
Part 1/2. Laxmi's Story
The last time when I worked I was making ‘Potey’ for a shopkeeper . I gradually got better at it and could manage making around three a day. I’d make as many as possible and deliver them at the end of the week. I’d make Rs 12 per piece which isn’t a lot but is definitely something and allows me to stay home and study. I miss being able to go to school though, talking to my friends and walking around. We used to learn a lot from each other but now it is just my mom, me and the phone.
Once I had a job at a clothing store where the day would end late. I used to enjoy my work but I’d really get stressed out as the sun would start to set. Before it got dark most eateries would have a lot of men hanging out and ‘drinking’. Although nothing terrible has happened, there are always these ‘what ifs’. It was scary and I’d ask one of my relatives to walk me home on some days. I don’t believe that gender determines one’s worth or ability but certain situations do become more challenging. Although safety, movement and facilities in general seem to be compromised if you are a woman. I would really like for myself to be able to provide for my mother as a child should, like a ‘Son’ would.
Mom has her problems and so does our life together but we feel we have a fairly good life. Life is not perfect but it is better than before, I am an educated and capable person. I do not have an impulsive nature nor do I have any bad habits like many of my cousins nor have I chosen marriage. I think the opportunity to go to school really made me understand what education really meant, it has enabled me to design a life that is full of possibilities. I like studying, in fact I am pretty good at it but it is really hard to learn, especially math. There are so many of us and such little time for questions with online classes which makes it harder. I try to be as attentive as possible but even then, it is not that easy. I will soon be done with the 10th grade but I still have three years until I can start working full time and support my family.