To Gift or not to gift

‘To gift or not to gift’ was a question before MIL.

“ isn’t it strange” said DIL KA TUKDA, “You used to buy different things for your DIL No. 1. Now why are you making it such a big issue?”

DKT was not ready to understand his poor mom’s problem. She had one most unwilling buyer for her usual gift pack idea. “DIL, I am giving you one more last chance. Why cant you be like the other fifty girls in the family and enjoy normal ‘Feminine Finery’?” pleaded MIL

“I am different – very different” said DIL stubbornly.

“DIL please....please...” MIL almost went down on her knees.

“Arre baba...what’s your problem MIL? You should be happy that you don’t have to spend your money on Sarres, jewellery, handbags or salwar kameez – for me at least.” DIL said firmly.

“DIL, its not the question of money – you should learn to value your MIL’s feelings. People express their love, care and concern when they gift something to somebody” – MIL tried to blackmail DIL emotionally.

“If you wish to satisfy your wish, you may – but don’t expect me to use the given items! As it is, you know that I pass on the things that are forced on to me or I tell you to return them to giver with thanks.” DIL was not ready to give in easily.

MIL too remembered the number of unused gifts extended to DIL.

MIL shook her head in distress. For the first time she had come across a person who refused to take a gift willingly given by someone. But all the same, MIL did not want to leave any stone unturned.

“why don’t you tell me about your likes and dislikes? So that in future, if I see something I will get it for you. “ MIL was feeling like a fool when she failed in convincing her DIL.

“OK, just for your satisfaction I will think over your suggestion.” DIL said obligingly.

In the next week DIL came with a wide smile on her face, and handed over a list of 15 items which she would welcome as a gift. MIL was overjoyed to see the paper thrust in her hand.

“At last – what an obedient, considerate and loving gesture! Thank you DIL!” MIL said with tears in her eyes.

Then she opened the paper and started reading the items breathlessly. She could never have imagined the items mentioned therein.

‘Trekking shoes...sleeping bag....wind cheater....haversack/ backpack....Hidesign wallet....camera....T shirt...jeans...Lonely Planet travel guides.....along with the items, their hifi brand names were included.

MIL was baffled!

Was this a list for her or for him?

Wasn’t it a little odd for DIL to ask for such things from her old fashioned MIL?

Then suddenly MIL started laughing and said to herself – Oh, now I get it...

DKT and DIL had met and fallen for each other when they met for the first time on the Everest base camp trekking expedition.

“So... she is different.” MIL admitted wholeheartedly.