The card that was never gifted

It was one of those snap at each other moments and then thinking of the innumerable ways to make up by means of nice gestures or little gifts. I had the easy way out most of the time, 'cos I would dish up something really nice and would win most of the time. For him, its a bit difficult- but he would offer to do little jobs for me in the kitchen - helping pack Aditi's bag for the next day or sterilize her bottles. And we would have happily forgotten about the crazy argument. Thankfully such occasions are rare in this household.
Last week, we had one such instance and we made up, smiled at each other and got down to completing some paper-work. He was busy filling up an application form and looking for some documents. Suddenly he looked up at me and said 'Shall I show you something?'. What kind of thing could be pulled out from midst of college certificates and mark sheets. My mind raced and the immediate thoughts were it would be a photo - 10 years or so younger and proudly displaying it. But then the question was repeated and this time my heart was beating fast. Before I could collect my thoughts and ask for it , out he pulled a little piece of white envelope and showed it to me. A card it was. But my birthday is still months away and the wedding anniversary when one would usually expect gifts was over 2 months ago. So still trying to guess hard why my name would be scribbled on the envelope, I peeped into the card. Out came the most wonderful words I had read in a long time. It was apt and it was at the right time. He had won over me this time and in the most unexpected manner. Full marks to this wonderful man who timed it even superbly. This is what the card read....

FOR THE PERSON WHO SHARES MY LIFE
I want to take a little time
To tell you how I feel
We all live such busy lives these days
That it's easy to get so wrapped up in everyday tasks
That we forget the things that really matter in life.

I've given it a lot of thought lately
And I've come to realize
That what really matters in my life is you
I take for granted your many qualities
Like your affectionate ways and your tenderness
Your ability to lift me when I'm feeling down
Or simply your willingness to listen when I need to talk

I know it may sometime seem as though
I don't appreciate all these wonderful things about you
BUT I DO
And although I dont always find the time to say it
I want you to know that I love you, I need you
And I feel very lucky to have you in my life.

I was filled with emotions and tears of joy ran through my cheeks. That was the nicest thing said about me in a while. Most of the words echoed what what running in my own mind. And to know thta the person who 'shared' your life felt the same way - was really awesome.

Was this card bought the same day that it was gifted to me. Apparently not. Otherwise why would it find its place in the midst of degree certificates. To know more on the story of the card read on. About 30 months ago, yes its thirty and not three, he was on night duty and my mother wished me on a thursday - 5 days before my actual birthday - saying it was my star birthday. I passed on the message to the husband, who enthusiastically went and bought a cuddly teddy for his wife and presented it the same evening. The card was supposed to be gifted on the actual birthday. 3 birthdays passed and the gift remained hidden. Approximately a year later, the teddy found its way into the baby crib. And one evening in early July, more than 2 and a half years later, the card finally reached its recipient. And that my dear friends is when the card was destined to find its rightful place.
If you have such similar or unusual experiences, why not share it with us. Go on and leave me a comment.