My Husband of 17 Years Got Me a Vacuum for My 50th Birthday – I Felt Humiliated and Taught Him a Lesson in Respect

For her 50th birthday, Caitlin Farley’s husband, Tom, gave her a vacuum cleaner, which she found humiliating. Tom had hyped up the surprise for weeks, but when Caitlin saw the vacuum, she felt taken for granted, especially after how much effort she’d put into Tom’s 50th birthday the previous year. In response, Caitlin decided to take a weeklong solo trip to Rome, leaving a note for Tom that read, “I left you something to keep you busy — this vacuum.”

While in Rome, Caitlin enjoyed her time alone, meeting a local woman who understood her need for independence. After returning home, Caitlin was met with a surprise party organized by Tom, who apologized and gave her a more thoughtful gift, a bracelet. The experience helped Tom realize how much he had taken Caitlin for granted.

Caitlin reflected that sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that help us rediscover who we are.