Secret and Delicious: The Unshareable Mango Mystery
Imagine having a garden that is more than just a place to grow food; it's a hidden paradise of culinary delights. I, lucky to have a 1-acre plot in Central Coastal Florida, not far from the beautiful Indian River Lagoon, am fortunate to have such a garden. It's not only my pride but also the envy of many. Mangoes, in particular, hold a special place in my heart and history, thanks to my father's mysterious connection with these fruits.
Agricultural Scientist's Magical Mangoes
My father, a dedicated agricultural scientist, worked in The Gambia, West Africa. Our garden was filled with an array of tropical fruits, including several mango trees. The mangoes we had were not just any mangoes, but a few standout varieties. My father would often refer to some of the mangoes he grew as being "normal sized but quite tasty." However, there were these other mangoes, mangoes that were truly exceptional—twin or triple the size of the regular ones and incomparably delicious.
The Mangoes No One Can Know About
These magnificent mangoes were a secret kept from even the most curious guests. When visitors asked where such large and tasty mangoes could be obtained, my father would simply say, "You can't buy them, you have to find them." He was happy to procure these mangoes for friends and guests but never ever revealed where they came from or the sources of these magical fruits. Often, he would accompany me on trips to a small village where the villagers grew this particular variety of mango. However, I never managed to get a clear answer from him on the name of the village, and the mystery remains unsolved. This mangoes mystery is a cherished secret that he took to his grave.
Concluding the Unshareable Legacy
The story doesn't end there. To this day, no one can know about my father's unique mango sourcing, and it's a secret I keep well too. It's a reminder that sometimes, certain gifts of nature are best left as mysteries, adding to the allure and magic of each bite.
Remember, there's a certain charm in having secrets about your favorite fruits. After all, who doesn't enjoy a little mangoes mystique in their life?