My Tiny Therapist

If there’s one person who can brighten my day without even trying, it’s my 4-year-old cousin, Mahirah. My Mumbai girl. She’s a bundle of pure joy, endless energy, and just the right amount of sass to keep life interesting. Talking to her isn’t just a conversation; it’s an experience, a journey into her magical little world where everything feels brighter and better.

Mahirah has this infectious way of making even the most boring topics feel exciting. She’ll talk about her favorite color as if it’s the most important decision of her life, and somehow, you’ll find yourself deeply invested in whether pink or yellow deserves the crown. The best part? Her confidence in her choices is rock solid there’s no room for doubt when Mahirah makes a decision.

She isn’t just a talker; she’s a performer. Mahirah loves to dance. She’ll spin, twirl, and even throw in a dramatic pose, all while giggling like it’s the best thing ever. Her dances aren’t just steps; they’re stories. One moment she’s a butterfly, the next she’s a mermaid, all narrated through her graceful (and sometimes hilariously clumsy) moves.

And speaking of mermaids, did I mention she swims like one? Watching her in the water is like seeing pure magic. She’s fearless, gliding through the pool with a confidence that makes me wonder how someone so small just four years old can be so bold. Maybe she would have inherited my uncle's talent who is a world record holder in swimming. She’ll splash around, try new strokes, and emerge with the biggest grin, as if she just conquered the ocean.

But what I love most about Mahirah is her way of seeing the world. Her questions are so unexpected and adorable that they leave me both laughing and thinking. “Why do fish never get bored in water?” or “Can the moon see us when we dance?” are just some of her random gems. And her solutions to life’s “problems” are always so simple and refreshing. Feeling sad? “Just eat chocolate and sing a happy song.” Tired? “Take a nap and dream about rainbows.”

Talking to Mahirah makes me forget about deadlines and worries. She reminds me of what it’s like to see the world through fresh eyes, where everything is an adventure, and every moment is worth celebrating. Whether she’s telling me about her day, showing off a new dance move, or splashing in the pool, Mahirah makes every second count.

She’s more than my cousin; she’s my tiny best friend, my inspiration, and my daily dose of happiness. With Mahirah around, life is always brighter, funnier, and a lot more magical.