Whenever I was just getting started on something, I would get carried away with big dreams.

I’d say things like,“Starting tomorrow, I’m going to work out. I’m going to do the coolest thing anyone has ever done. I’m going to change everything.

“Stop talking so much pa manqali.”

Pa manqal is literally “by the grill” — the place where we put the charcoal, throw some chicken kebabs on, and sit around talking while they cook.

And honestly, a lot of things get said pa manqal.

Big plans. Wild ideas. Dreams that sound amazing in the moment.

Maybe my dad was just teasing me.
But somehow, that phrase stayed with me.