Beneath the Surface: A Daughter's Reflections

In the midst of a heated argument, she unleashed her fury upon Praveen. His attention was consumed by an IPL match, his incessant chatting with someone else, oblivious to her exhaustion. All she yearned for was a helping hand to fetch dinner from a nearby restaurant or even a quick outing for a meal. She hadn't even realized when Sunday had slipped away, lost in a whirlwind of cooking, laundry, and cleaning.

Her back ached, her toes throbbed, pleading for relief. All she wanted was a steaming shower and to collapse into bed, even if it meant skipping dinner. But Praveen persisted, pestering her about their evening meal. And in that moment, she lost her composure.

Frustrated and drained, she stormed into her room, slamming the door shut behind her. Collapsing onto her bed, tears streamed down her face. Praveen wanted to console her, but she wasn't receptive. She demanded solitude, urging him to leave her be. Sensing her need for space, Praveen decided to give her time alone. Eventually, she emerged from her room, finding Praveen slumbering on the couch. She switched off the lights, retreated to her sanctuary, indulged in a soothing shower, and settled down at her study desk.

She had always turned to writing as an outlet for her thoughts and emotions. Gripping her notepad tightly, she began penning a letter.

"I hate you, Dad... I truly hate you!"

Where can we find someone like you?

I witnessed your presence while growing up, shaping my perception of what a man should be. Today, I lost my temper once again, defying your teachings of never raising my voice at anyone. But I couldn't resist; I shouted at him, taking the liberty you granted me with your belief that anger is a matter of acceptance.

You instilled within us an unwavering sense of well-being and self-confidence. Your affection and support were boundless, anticipating our emotional needs before we could even articulate them. The comforting embrace you offered, I can still feel it.

The way you treated me influenced how I approached relationships with others. My friends, lovers, and future spouses were all chosen based on the example you set. You established patterns in my interactions, shaping how I relate to people. I have witnessed your exceptional handling of relationships, both within and outside our family.

You have always been loving and gentle, not just to your wife but to all of us. I have never seen you angry with anyone. If you were upset with us, we knew we had made a mistake and needed to rectify it, just as you always said, "Anger is a precious resource; don't squander it." Today, I truly understand the depth of that statement.

As a husband, you epitomized affection and love. You showered Mom with tenderness, kisses, and warm embraces, even after all these years. Your sweetness and romantic gestures never waned.

You strived to be happy and healthy, so you could always be there for us. The fear of losing us gripped your heart. Dad, you had immense faith in us, entrusting us with your property, money, and even your recurring salary. I have never seen you doubt us, not even for the smallest of things like our favorite color, music, food, or places. You always took an interest in knowing us. I remember talking for hours, pouring out my thoughts, and you would listen attentively with a smile. I have also witnessed Mom unburdening her frustrations on you, and you would take it in stride.

From the tiniest of tasks to shouldering responsibilities, you were always by Mom's side. Whenever I asked why you weren't out with your friends having a drink on the weekends, you would smile and say, "You all are my best friends. When I have enough time with you, maybe I'll spend some with them as well." Forgiveness, forgetting, and moving forward to embrace a joyful life together were your guiding principles. You possess a heart so full of kindness, always seeking to help us and bring smiles to our faces.

You were never cruel. You never caused physical, mental, or emotional harm to anyone I know.

Mom was fortunate to have you as her partner. I grew up witnessing your relationship, your embodiment of what a husband should be. You have set the bar so high, and for that, I despise you.

I hate you, Dad, for not enlightening me about the realities of marriage. I hate you for burdening me with false expectations.

You should have been a father to sons, at least they would have learned from you.

I'm not comparing you to Praveen, but I believe he can stand as an exemplary figure for his children someday.

With love,

She stared at the letter for a while, a maelstrom of emotions brewing within her. Eventually, she crumpled the paper and placed it on the table. Exhausted, she pulled a pillow from the sofa and settled down on the floor to sleep. In the early hours of the morning, Praveen awoke and noticed her lying on the floor. His gaze fell upon the crumpled letter, and he carefully folded it, placing it in his pocket. As he headed off to the office, he took her to her father's house, just a couple of lanes away, and handed the letter to him, remarking, "It's a tribute from your daughter. I eagerly await a letter of my own from my wife and children someday."

She looked at Praveen, taken aback by his unexpected gesture, and embraced him tightly, overflowing with gratitude and love.