For my husband’s birthday, I saved $5,500 for a rare lithograph, sacrificing weekends and sleep. On my birthday, he gave me a $6 ceramic chicken toothpick holder, expecting me to love it. Furious at the imbalance—my effort versus his thoughtlessness—I realized I’d been overinvesting in our marriage. After an awkward silence, I left for my cousin Manuela’s, where I rediscovered my old passion for beach glass jewelry.
Back home, I confronted him, leading to a separation. I moved out, took a job at an art center, and revived my jewelry-making, which took off. His later apology acknowledged his neglect, but I didn’t return. Meeting others through my work, I embraced my independence. His gift, though insulting, freed me to prioritize myself. If you’ve walked away to find yourself, share this reminder: loss can lead to rediscovery—don’t settle for less than you deserve.
