Mum was always incredibly strict with me. Dad was often away travelling for work, so Mum was left to raise me on her own. My father loved me, but every time he returned home, it meant lots of gifts. Mum never showed much affection towards me. One day, Dad left for a business trip and never came back.
At school, I never really had any friends. I wore clothes that made me look like a paupera battered old uniform Mum had found in the street. She would always say, Wear whatever you have. I need to sort my life out first and dont have the money for you.” So, I patiently wore that hideous getup through Year Five.
Later on, one of our neighbours gave me her daughters school uniform after she graduated. I wore that up until I finished school. As for shoes, I just wore whatever I happened to have, even after they grew too small. Finally, I managed to graduate sixth form with good marks and chose to study economics at university. Even at campus, I kept wearing clothes given to me by my mates when they no longer wanted them.
One day, I met Dominic, who had graduated a few years before. We started dating, and eventually he introduced me to his parents. When I visited them for the first time, I felt embarrassed about my worn-out shoesmy feet were damp, but his mother kindly pretended not to notice. The next day, she invited me over and gave me a pair of new shoes as a gift.
I was worried that Dominics parents wouldnt like me, yet they soon welcomed me as part of their family. I had no idea what Id done to deserve such kindness. They gave us a house as a wedding gift. After graduation, my mother-in-law offered me a job at her company, where the pay was excellent. For the first time, I could afford what I needed. Ill never stop thanking God for seeing me through life.
When Mum found out I was married, had a good job, and my own apartment, she came quickly to ask for financial support. However, our conversation was overheard by my stepmother. She immediately called my husband and son home. In the end, my husband explained to Mum that she shouldnt expect anything from me anymore. He said he was grateful to have a daughter, but she shouldnt come back to our house again. Since then, Mum hasnt contacted me, and now Im looking forward to welcoming my child.
Ive learned that generosity and support can change someones life, and, for me, acceptance and kindness meant everything.
