Will you be coming over on Sunday, love? I asked my daughter, Emily.
Of course, Mum, she replied.
I was looking forward to seeing the children and set about preparing for their visit. Wanting to treat them to something special, I tidied the house from top to bottom and made sure everything was in order. I laid the table, ready for their arrival. All that was left to do was wait for my guests. But when the agreed time came, nobody showed up. I started to worry, wondering if something had happened.
Id meant to give my children a generous sum of money I knew theyd been longing for a new car. I decided to ring my daughter. She answered, sounding half-asleep.
Mum, I completely forgot we were supposed to come over
So you mean I spent the last two days getting everything ready for nothing? Especially as its my birthday today.
Mum, I promise, well come round tomorrow. Ive just been so busy, it slipped my mind. Sorry.
I ended the call, feeling terribly hurt. In frustration, I cleared away everything Id prepared for them. Then I packed a bag, took the money Id intended for the children, and set off to spend a few days at the seaside in Brighton. It turned out to be a wonderful holiday. One afternoon in the park, a gentleman came over and invited me for a coffee.
His name was Philipa retired judge. Conversation with him was effortless and captivating; he knew so many fascinating stories, and I found myself sharing my own.
We began to grow fond of each other. Before I left, Philip asked me to move in with him.
Ive got a comfortable flat and my pension. We could spend time togethergo to the cinema, relax. Life is short.
I hesitated. But I have children, grandchildren
He smiled, reassuringly. They have their own lives, dont they? Theyll come and visit us. At that moment, I couldnt help but think of my daughters earlier behaviourand I agreed.
A week later, I returned home. Plastered to my front door was a notice asking for help in finding a missing womanme.
Theyre looking for you, arent they? Philip asked.
It must be my daughter, I replied.
She didnt know you were on holiday?
No, she had no idea.
Right then, Emily appeared on the stairs.
Mum, where have you been? Ive been searching everywhere!
I went away for a break. Im allowed to have my own life and my own worries sometimes. And this is Philip. Were going to live together.
I I dont understand.
Theres nothing to worry about. Dont you want me to be happy?
I do, Mum.
Good, I smiled. “Come on, Ive got some souvenirs from my trip for you.
Life sometimes turns a corner when you least expect it. I realised that its never too late to find happiness for yourself, and sometimes, its only when we start living our own lives that others truly appreciate us.
