LONG-AWAITED HAPPINESS
Its strange, looking backhow the happiest day of Elizabeths life unfolded. She glowed from within, her joy so bright it could be seen across all of London. After twelve long years of hoping and wishing, her prayers were finally answered: she was going to become a mother. What greater blessing could a woman ask for? Anyone whos known the joy of motherhood could sing her praises in harmony.
Elizabeth felt as though she were walking in the clouds. Every few minutes her hand would rest on her belly, and shed break into a wide, unguarded smile, speaking softly to her little onebarely two and a half months along. Her days had taken on a golden light that brightened every corner of their old house.
Elizabeth met Thomas back in their youth, while attending university in Oxford. Theyd studied side by side, sharing every triumph and struggle. Graduating together, they wasted little time and married within three months. Life seemed perfectthey were a happy pair, inseparable, building their home with laughter and shared dreams. But six months into married life, Elizabeths hopes faltered. Thomas reassured her as best he could, repeating kindly that all would come in its time, and that children would surely join them someday soon.
Two more years passed, and Elizabeths hope dwindled. She sought advice from her doctor on Harley Street, but nothing serious was found. Thomas understood her sorrow, showering her with tenderness, and taking her on long strolls through Hyde Park, but day by day she grew quieter, more withdrawn. Twelve years trickled away; the full measure of happiness still eluded her.
One warm July dayhow vivid it remainsElizabeth ventured out while Thomas was hard at work in the City. Lost in thought, she wandered slowly through narrow streets, not noticing much around her, head bowed, lost in private reverie.
Suddenly she heard a tiny voice, so close:
Are you my mummy?
She stopped dead, as if struck by lightning. Looking up, she saw a little boy, perhaps three years old, standing behind a tall iron gate, his small hands gripping the bars, eyes fixed upon her.
Confused, Elizabeth paused, unable to process the moment. After gathering herself, she drew nearer. It was the orphanage just off Regents Park; she glimpsed other children playing further afield.
She examined the sweet child, words failing her. Thoughts whirled through her mindthis moment might shape everything. Carefully, she asked,
Do you remember your mother? What was she like?
No, Ive never seen her. Thats why I wait here. Shell know me if she passes by.
Yes, youre right, replied Elizabeth, her heart swelling at the idea she could change his story.
Whats your name?
William.
Elizabeths resolve hardened. She realised shed do everything in her power to adopt this boy. Fate must have led her to that very gate.
I had a son once, years ago, but I lost him, she said gently. He was called William too, and Ive searched for him ever since. Perhaps its you?
The boys face lit up with hope and glee, and he cried out, grinning:
Yes, yes! Youre my mummy! I knew it was you!
His little arms reached through the railing, and Elizabeth embraced him tightly, tears filling her eyes.
Lets go to the headmistress right away and tell her. Ill take you home.
Hooray! he shouted with abandon.
Elizabeth, filled with joy, walked into the orphanage with William by her side.
At last, young William will have a mother! exclaimed the nurse, genuinely pleased.
What followed were inquiries, document checks, committees, and anxious waitingall of it passing for Elizabeth in a daze. Yet William understood and believed she was truly his mother now. Elizabeth prepared Thomas for the new family member; together they arranged a cheerful nursery, purchased a bed, toys, and everything a child could need. Thomas could not resist; for the first time in all their years, he saw joy alight in his wifes eyes.
Then the day arrivedthe day she had dreamed of. William legally became their son. Hand in hand, they walked home together, radiant with happiness. Their dwelling transformed: the silence that reigned for twelve years was now broken by merry footsteps and thrilled cries of Daddy, look! Elizabeths heart came alive. She poured all her pent-up affection into William. Thomas proved the finest father any child could wish for.
Time marched on, and William brought daily delight. Then, one gentle morning, Elizabeth felt poorly. Thomas grew concerned, so they visited their family doctor. There, they received astonishing news: Elizabeth was expecting a baby. Words couldnt capture their overflowing joy.
Eager anticipation filled their household; soon came the day a healthy daughter, Alice, was born. Now, their family was truly complete.
Elizabeth often reflected that the miracle of Alices birth only came about because, once, shed paused at the orphanage gate for a lonely little boy. Kindness has its own rewards. Happiness rarely follows the clockit finds those whose hearts are open and giving, without conditions or expectation.
