Small Story 556.

 Small Story 556.

A Gift Across Oceans

Ram returned from his evening walk to his apartment, where his wife Janaki handed him a parcel.

“Dear, this just arrived ten minutes ago,” she said.

Ram looked surprised. “Who could have sent this?” he wondered aloud. That evening, at 7 p.m., he had invited his daughter, son, and a few close friends to celebrate his 53rd wedding anniversary. The unexpected parcel added to his curiosity.

He carefully opened it. Inside, he found a neatly folded blue shirt—his favorite color—and a small envelope. The parcel was from Sugandhi, a versatile journalist he had met in California exactly a year ago, on the same date.

Memories rushed back to him.

During his visit to his daughter in California, Ram had met Sugandhi at a supermarket. She had taken a liking to him, impressed by his gentle nature and dignified personality. Being fellow Indians in a foreign land, they struck up a warm conversation, which led to tea at a nearby restaurant.

While they were chatting, Ram received a call from son Raj in Chennai, wishing him a happy wedding anniversary. Sugandhi had overheard the conversation. That small moment had stayed with her.

During his three-month stay in California, Ram grew close to Sugandhi and her husband, Vasudev. Together, they visited many places and shared joyful moments. Their bond grew into a meaningful friendship.

Now, a year later, she had remembered his special day. Along with the shirt, she had sent a small wallet as a gift for Janaki.

By 6:45 p.m., all the guests had arrived. They warmly wished Ram and Janaki on their 53rd wedding anniversary. After a delicious dinner prepared by Janaki and a spread of sweets, everyone enjoyed the celebration.

Before the evening ended, Ram stood up to thank his guests. He spoke about the parcel from California and the thoughtful gesture of a friend who had remembered his special day from across the oceans. He shared how such friendships made life richer and more meaningful.

The guests listened with admiration. Some even whispered that, like Lord Ram, this Ram too was loved by everyone around him.

Ram felt overwhelmed. His eyes filled with tears of gratitude. Janaki looked at him with deep emotion, understanding the quiet joy in his heart.

It was not just an anniversary celebration—it was a reminder that true connections, once formed, never fade, no matter the distance.

K.Ragavan

21-3-26