Domestic science

To my gentle attempts to teach her economy, she responded with a condescending smile that all but said, ‘What a skinflint you are!’ Then something happened that changed her for ever. She went on a month’s leave during the Diwali holidays. Being the festival season, we couldn’t find a substitute for her so I was forced to attend to all the work myself. But with some assistance from the rest of the family I managed. It was difficult initially. However, we soon got used to fending for ourselves. What was more, I could cut down on all the waste.

When the month ended, the saving in terms of gas and electricity was more than a thousand rupees, not to speak of precious water. Not all was gain, of course. There was loss too — but a happy one. I shed two kilos. Now, I was ready to face our extravagant maid.

The day she returned, she headed for the kitchen and opened the tap as usual. Seeing this, I went behind her and closed it. Then mustering all the firmness I could, I said, “Now you’ll work as I tell you to!” She was taken aback. But said nothing. She did things as she was told but I sensed resentment building up in her. While leaving, she was about to snap. It was then that I placed two crisp hundred-rupee notes in her hand and said sweetly, “This is what you will get extra if you work like this.”

Her face melted into a smile. Since then, she has tried to be careful. Energy conservation, they say, begins at home.