As far back as memory serves, I recall being partial to having an animated chatter

My report cards in primary school from well meaning teachers consistently

Pointed out to my parents’ dismay – “she is bright, but should talk less”, alas, I wondered whatever was the matter

I narrated accounts to friends who gathered eagerly to listen, about my life outside school

From interactions with an annoying sibling, cheeky exploits with rumbunctious friends,

weekends with cousins, cuddles with pets and how my parents strictly their household did rule

My narrations were reciprocated by friends with riveting stories of their own

I heard about their exciting holidays, about where they lived and about the food they ate

These conversations taught me very early on how in my navigation of life I was not alone

I learned that we all have fears, deep desires, genuine hopes and inspiring dreams

Such as getting a good education, forging a successful career, pursuing travel and family goals

The chatter box in me paid off after all, as these tête-à-têtes fed my mind, my heart and nourished my soul it seems

Adulthood brought on conversations that alternated between the light hearted and the serious

And spanned topics from religion to politics, philosophy to science and plenty more in between

My gabfests were the perfect antidote for the ever enquiring mind of one so curious.

Dialogues with friends, with parents, aunts and uncles, with school teachers and many a classmate

Debates in school, impassioned views delivered enthusiastically to university mates and lecturers

All served to advance my learnings. These conversations certainly did educate

Fast forward to the present day where having embarked on a quest to establish a career

I note that powwows at meetings, impromptu chitchats and confabs all serve to inform

These exchanges of comments and questions although contextually different, my learning continues to steer

So when I think back to my younger self and remember the imploring I received to chinwag less

With the reasoning that I would learn more and get better grades at school

I am quietly content with remaining my chatterbox self as my learning has been substantial albeit via an unconventional process.