As you sow, so shall you reap

So what have you decided, Matt?

I don’t know. What is there to decide? She’s a cripple now. She’s forever going to be in a wheelchair. How can I marry her now?

Why? You know her since school days. You both decided mutually to marry. And one accident that cripples Angela, makes you decide otherwise. She needs you now more than ever.

Listen, Tom. I appreciate your concern. But I would prefer you mind your own affairs. It’s a good thing that before marriage this happened or I would be saddled for life. No, no. In Canada we have the privilege to go our own separate ways any time. It is our choice. And I have exercised my choice now.

What if you were in her situation?

That’s fine. I am not dependent on anyone. If my spouse wishes to leave me, that’s perfectly ok with me. No hassles, man.

Matt, you were driving the car and your rash driving made her a handicap.

Enough of it, Tom. It was just a coincidence that I was driving the car. She wanted to drive but luckily I drove. I dread to think I will now be sitting in the wheelchair. Her side of the door was not locked and then you know the rest. Everyone has their use. It was in her fate to be crippled. I could have been in her situation but I am not. She was the chosen one. She is a liability now. What can I do about it.

I guess nothing. So you don’t feel any responsibility towards her?

I have only one life to live. I want to live it my way. I’m just 27. I have a busy social life. Will I be pushing her wheelchair wherever I go and throughout my life? Now that’s expecting too much. No one would do that. At least I won’t. But I can suggest one thing. This will suit you fine. Since you are so concerned, you can go ahead doing this. Anyways, Sally’s waiting for me. She’s everything anyone can desire for. She’s the life of parties. And she has chosen me.

***

Sally, Sally, where are you? Today is our third wedding anniversary. I ordered this beautiful necklace for you. It would look pretty around your neck.

Matt, don’t bother me anymore. Since your car accident six months back, my social life has shrunk. I dread to think that for life I’m tied to an invalid. No, no, I can’t have that.

Sally, what are you saying? I am your husband. I need you totally, emotionally. It is so difficult for me. I’m just confined to these four walls. I haven’t been to the office too. I just can’t face anyone. I need you sally, I need you.

Oh, yeah! Mrs Thomas was asking me about you. But I could sense her derision. She was inviting everyone for her next party but completely excluded me from the invites. I can understand why. I have to change this situation somehow. I just can't remain in a tense situation. I can't see people ignoring me. I will soon become history.

Don't worry. I will consult the best doctors. Science has progressed very far. I will be hale and hearty and then both of us will be dancing and partying. Please be with me. This is nothing. I just need complete rest and you.

Stop it, Matt. I can’t be tied to an invalid. These past three months have been a hell for me. I haven’t been to any party. My social circle has shrunk. I dread to think if I remain here with you, my friends would totally ignore me. Now listen carefully. I am taking Tracy and Anne with me. I will take care of our daughters. Our marriage is over, finished. I suggest you find a care giver.

Sally, please don’t say that. What about our marriage vows? For better or for worse...

That looks good on paper and as marriage vow. In practical life you need money and an active partner. Otherwise, life is bitter and worst.

Sally, I’ll be an emotional wrack without your support. Please don’t leave me.

You need your own company or people in your situation.

People in my situation… Angela!

***

May I please speak with Angela.

Who is this?

I am Matt here.

Oh Matt, how are you. I am Tom here. What is the matter. You are remembering her after a long time.

You are right. I have been a very self-centred man. Selfish, in fact. When she needed me the most, I just left her. I should have stuck by her through thick and thin but I drifted otherwise. I have come to my senses now. I will take care of her and provide the best for her. I have been punished enough for ignoring her. I have come back to my senses.

That’s ok. That won't be necessary now.

Why, why do you say that. Is she ok. And where is she. And how come you are answering her phone.

Matt, I can't thank you enough. You know, Angela and me were married last year.

You got married to her!

Yes. That’s right.

I can't believe that. She was an invalid. You didn’t even know her well. And she was devoted to me. She won't marry anyone except me.

I don’t know about that but she willingly married me.

I still can't believe it. Only when I hear it from her, I will know the truth.

Matt, three years back, when I took her to the doctor, he advised me that her condition would improve with enough exercise and her will to get well. I was there for her to exercise and she had the will to get well. She was completely fit last year. And I proposed to her. We were married. And just two months back we became proud parents of a boy. My circle of happiness is complete. Sorry, I will call Angela now. She will tell you everything.

Never mind, Tom. That won't be necessary.

***