Abigail arrived at Paddington Station from her small village, lugging two rather hefty bags. She didnt visit her family often, but shed spent her last bit of money on gifts for them, hoping to bring a little happiness into their lives. She never showed up empty-handed, and this time shed truly outdone herselfeach bag weighed nearly ten kilograms. Though the journey had been exhausting and her arms ached dreadfully, she pressed on with the promise that her son would be there to greet her at the station.
But when she arrived, there was no sign of him anywhere. With a sigh, she set down the heavy bags and dialed his number, her hands trembling slightly from fatigue.
The phone rang for what seemed like ages. At last, after the tenth ring, her son answered, his voice laced with confusion.
Oh, Mum, Im so sorry, he said. I completely forgot you were coming today. We decided last minute to visit my wifes parents down in Cornwall, and well be gone all week. Seems youve come all this way for nothing. Please, just head back home. Honestly, I wasnt expecting it to turn out like thiswe just left on a whim and I forgot to mention it.
Tears sprang to her eyes, but she held them in and replied simply, All right.
Knowing she couldnt bear the thought of dragging those parcels all the way back, her arms already sore beyond belief, she handed the bags to a pair of homeless men standing by the station entrance. It was better that way, rather than struggle with the weight, and perhaps her gifts could bring someone else a little joy.
She didnt voice her disappointment to her son. He never truly grasped how deeply hed wounded his mothers heart. Abigail had poured all her love and soul into raising him, only for him to neglect her now she was old. A month later, when her daughter-in-law phoned asking Abigail to look after the grandchildren for a weekend so they could attend a friends wedding, she shook her head and refused. She was simply tired of being remembered only when it suited them.
Reflecting on it all, I couldnt help but realise that one shouldnt allow themselves to be taken for granted, even by those they love most. Sometimes, its all right to put your own well-being first.
