Maame

by Jessica George

I can’t comprehend living to work, but then I’m afraid of working just to live.

For some reason, at night, when you’re meant to be sleeping, your brain wants answers to everything.

Still, that doesn’t change the fact that although I didn’t think I’d be rich, I expected to be happy and the failure to do so has left me gasping for air most of the day.

“You’re Christian, Shu. Do you always believe in God?” “Yeah, course. Got to.” “Why?” “Because,” she says, “I can’t carry on living believing human beings are as good as it gets.” She looks at me. “We’re the worst.”

It’s about what love is. Which is trust, commitment, empathy, and respect. It means really giving a shit about the other person.”