**The Spice of Life**

Last summer, I went to India. It was my first time in this beautiful country. I was excited to learn about spices and cooking.

One day, I met a local chef named Priya. She smiled and said, “Cooking is magic!” I watched as she mixed colorful spices like turmeric and cumin. “Each spice has a story,” she explained. I listened carefully, and my mouth watered with each word.

I learned to balance flavors. “Add a little salt, and it will taste better,” Priya told me. I tried making a curry. It was hard, but it was fun! I felt proud when Priya said, “Very good!”

Now, I see cooking as a way to connect with people. Food can bring us together, no matter where we are from. This trip changed how I think about cooking and sharing cultures.