To the One Who Wished First

Some people bring warmth so effortlessly, you forget the world can be otherwise.

Today, Shilpa was that person.

She reached out with a birthday wish, fond, cheerful, no frills—and it simply made my day.

And me?
I thanked her. Genuinely. Politely.
Nothing more.

I had no idea I was missing the plot.

Then later, Instagram delivered the plot twist... like a nosy aunt, but with better filters.

It was her birthday too!

I didn’t see it coming.
Not out of neglect... just one of those slips that come with not knowing better.

So here I am.
Mildly embarrassed, entirely well-meaning, and playing catch-up.

Happy Birthday, Shilpa.
May your days be full of the same lightness you carry.
May your smile stay undefeated.
And your kindness keep sneaking up on unsuspecting people like me.

Thank you for wishing first.
Thanks for the warmth.
And for reminding me that grace often goes ahead of us... quietly, without keeping score.

Next time, I’ll try to beat you to it.

Cheers!