For many years I wished my parents would gift me something by way of a surprise. It wasn't the anticipation of recieving something in itself, but more so to do with the whole ritual of knowing how thoughtful an act it was, plus the deep underlying gratitude and thankfulness. So when this didn't happen for what seemed like ages, I decided it was time to take matters in my own hands.
One fine day, I indirectly told mum how she had always made sure my sister recieved a gift on her birthday, and so did my brother-in-law in the times to come, but I was never subject to the same treatment. It didn't insight any reaction or explanation on her part. So this year, on my birthday, I ensured my sister would tell mum how much I would appreciate getting a gift for a change. It didn't happen. We were in the capital back then so I quizzed her about why she had yet again decided to take the easier path of handing me a card and money. "Well, you are very particular about your likes and dislikes while your sister isn't demanding," she said.
But all that changed yesterday. My parents went to Shimla for a two day tour since the next dentist appointment was scheduled to take place later during the week. Although the hill station proved to be a big disappointment, both seem to have enjoyed the break; the satisfaction of having been to a new place for a change. I met them yesterday at the dental clinic, and from there we proceeded to Nehru Place. My three and a half year old HCL laptop is a pain in the butt now and the only option left was to buy a new one. So amidst worried calls and msgs from people all over the country post the high court bomb blast, we headed to the computer haven. I bought a new Dell netbook which is perfect mobility-wise. I went for the all black model since I intend to pass it down to my father once I get my scholarship money. He was advising me against buying an expensive laptop (my heart has been set on the Pro for over a year now and tops the things-I-need-to-indulge-in list), but I reiterated that this was one of the few things I desired. Thankfully, he didn't argue further.
Coming back to my point about gifts, while we sat squashed in the auto, Mum coyly said, "We have a gift for you." I was pleasantly surprised and curious at the same time. The next moment I had a key chain staring back at me.
One fine day, I indirectly told mum how she had always made sure my sister recieved a gift on her birthday, and so did my brother-in-law in the times to come, but I was never subject to the same treatment. It didn't insight any reaction or explanation on her part. So this year, on my birthday, I ensured my sister would tell mum how much I would appreciate getting a gift for a change. It didn't happen. We were in the capital back then so I quizzed her about why she had yet again decided to take the easier path of handing me a card and money. "Well, you are very particular about your likes and dislikes while your sister isn't demanding," she said.
But all that changed yesterday. My parents went to Shimla for a two day tour since the next dentist appointment was scheduled to take place later during the week. Although the hill station proved to be a big disappointment, both seem to have enjoyed the break; the satisfaction of having been to a new place for a change. I met them yesterday at the dental clinic, and from there we proceeded to Nehru Place. My three and a half year old HCL laptop is a pain in the butt now and the only option left was to buy a new one. So amidst worried calls and msgs from people all over the country post the high court bomb blast, we headed to the computer haven. I bought a new Dell netbook which is perfect mobility-wise. I went for the all black model since I intend to pass it down to my father once I get my scholarship money. He was advising me against buying an expensive laptop (my heart has been set on the Pro for over a year now and tops the things-I-need-to-indulge-in list), but I reiterated that this was one of the few things I desired. Thankfully, he didn't argue further.
Coming back to my point about gifts, while we sat squashed in the auto, Mum coyly said, "We have a gift for you." I was pleasantly surprised and curious at the same time. The next moment I had a key chain staring back at me.
"Nice to have a daughter like you", it read and my heart melted.
This is by far the most touching gift I've received. I could actually feel the sentiment behind it. Love you Amla-Pala. I will make both of you proud no matter what. And with this, my quest for a gift has finally come to an end.
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