"You ought to have some maturity. You cannot expect everyone to pamper you. " Sunil snapped at Madhu. "If you want respect, you can only command it. I don't have time or mood for the emotional drama. " Picking up his bag, he hurried off to work, banging the door shut.
Madhu stood still, allowing every word to sink in. It had started with her casually mentioning to Sunil about him forgetting their anniversary dinner, which she painstakingly arranged. The storm of the argument soon brought tears and she was engulfed in sorrow. "Why did I raise the topic, when I know he's insensitive ? It is better off not to make any plans involving him. Does he have any idea of pain, his words inflict ? What kind of relationship did I sign for ?"
Unable to hold back the floodgates of sorrow, she decided to visit her mother. An hour later, she was sipping tea in her mother's company. Her mother, Shobha intuitively guessed her upset mood and waited patiently. Presently Madhu blurted out " Sunil has changed a lot. He is no longer interested in this marriage. I can't seem to make it work. Would you mind if I stay here for a few more days ?"
Still, Shobha did not reply. Instead, she offered her cookies. Madhu did not understand the meaning behind her silence and ate the cookies, absently biting her tongue instead. She held her cheeks and winced in pain. Shobha immmediately gave her water and waited till the pain subsided. Then she said " Oh ! It seems very painful. Now your teeth is responsible for biting your tongue. What do we do ? Either we need to break the teeth or separate it from tongue."
Madhu said "Mom, come on. You know it is not possible. Is this your idea of philosophy ? I came to you for guidance and comfort. You are mocking at me."
Shobha replied "Dear, I am not mocking at your condition. I am only telling you that when your close relations or loved ones' remarks hurt or offend you, just compare it to the tongue bit. It definitely induces pain. But you cannot sever ties with them, just as you cannot break your teeth. When you can make up your mind to heal and forget the pain, it is also possible to forgive them and be peaceful and happy. Let go of whatever pains you and you will never be sad. "
Madhu listened and realized that her mother was right. Her cell phone rang. Sunil had called "Hi Madhu, I am sorry for my outburst today. Shall we go for a movie and dinner tonight ? " She happily agreed and hugged her mom. Shobha kissed her forehead and waved goodbye.
It is painful when our close friends or loved ones utter insensitive remarks or offend us. However, we can choose to treat it just as accidental bite on tongue and forgive them. After all, we still love each other and cannot imagine life without them.
