The elderly woman told me that she had not seen her son in over six years.
How long has it been since your son last spoke to you? I asked my neighbour. In that moment, my heart broke a little.
Its been six years since I last laid eyes on him, she replied. After he moved away with his wife, he would still ring me now and then, but then all contact faded. I remember once, I bought a cake for his birthday and went to visit Her eyes fell to the carpet, and tears came.
And what happened then?
My daughter-in-law opened the door and told me quite plainly that I was not welcome in their home. My son said nothing to her; he just looked at me as though Id done some terrible thing, then turned his face away. That was the very last time I saw him.
He never called you again? I could scarcely believe my ears.
I made a call to him once, when Id decided to sell the three-bedroom flat and buy something smaller. Of course, I gave him some money. He came, signed the papers, took the money, and after that, not so much as a letter or a call.
Do you feel terribly lonely, or have you come to terms with being on your own? I asked the old lady gently.
Oh, I manage, she replied. When I was but a young woman, I was left to raise my son alone after my husband deserted me for someone else. I brought my boy up on my own, surrounded him with all the love and care I had. Later, he told me he wanted to rent his own place. At first, I was pleased. I thought he was growing up, learning to stand on his own two feet.
But there was something else at playhis sweetheart was urging him to move out, she wanted them to have their own place where no one would interfere with their fun. Soon she fell pregnant.
Do you tell me all this so calmly? Arent you upset that your son has left you alone at your age? I was surprised.
Ive grown quite used to it. I rather enjoy living in my new cottage. I have enough saved up in pounds to want for nothing. Each morning, I rise, put the kettle on, and step onto the balcony to take my tea. I love those moments, watching the city wake up. When I was young, I used to dream about sleeping in, since I was always working two shifts just to make ends meet. I once imagined old age surrounded by children and grandchildren, but I suppose solitude was meant for me after all.
Why not get yourself a pet? Company always helps, you know.
Oh, darling, sad as it is, even cats sometimes stray from home, and I cant think of having a dogI never know if Ill wake up the next morning, and I couldnt forgive myself for leaving a creature uncared for. Ive done enough foolish things in my time
She held her head high, trying to keep her composure, but soon enough she broke down in tears.
Children, never turn your back on your parents! You are a part of them, and when they are gone, a piece of you will go with them.
