Day Shift
Dear Uche,
Today, I am deep in my feelings about what the psychic said on Sunday. One of your two flaws—your critical nature and the fact that you are so busy—is suddenly glaringly obvious now that it's been pointed out to me. I mean, I knew you were a workaholic, but babe, you give that job every ounce of your energy, and when you finally come home to talk with me, I get the sleepy version of you. I mentioned before that I felt like your job gets the best of you every day, and I have to wait until the weekend for my turn.
But on Monday, I saw a different side of you—you were the most alive after work that I’ve ever seen you. That moment was so special, and I was living for every second. Conversations with you are like the perfect sweet and savory dessert that never runs out. Maybe the time apart teaches me patience and gratitude for the moments we do have. Patience is a lesson I have yet to master, but I’m realizing it’s essential in a relationship. Can you see it, too? Your presence alone pushes me to reflect on my own behaviors, to grow, to evolve. I can’t imagine how 40+ years of living with you as my mirror will transform my mindset for the better. I love you just for existing.
And I can’t forget the moment that melted me most—when you told me you had been quietly observing my habits. You noticed how much I love places with good views of the city or water, and because of that, you’ve been planning to take me to places in Lagos with breathtaking views. That kind of thoughtfulness is beyond me. I still don’t know how you figured that out from my pictures and the little things I’ve said. That’s not something I’ve ever told anyone, yet you noticed, acknowledged it, and acted on it. You’re the first person to do that. This must be what feeling like a princess feels like.
That single moment completely outweighed any feelings I had at the start of this letter about not getting enough phone time today. I won’t edit that part of this letter, though, because I want you to see it in real time—how simply thinking about something I love about you completely shifts my mood. You are my antidote. What is the word for that in your language? That’s your new name.
Loving you authentically,
Victoria
