My, hasnt your Emily grown proud! People say money changes folk, and it seems theyre right!
I couldnt quite understand what they meant, or how Id offended anyone.
There was a time when my life felt perfectmarried, two lovely children, and happiness. But tragedy struck out of the blue; my dear husband was killed in a car crash coming home from work. The grief nearly swallowed me whole, and I thought Id never survive, but my mother insisted I keep going for the sake of the children. So I pulled myself together. I worked as hard as I could, day in and day out, just to keep us afloat. Years passed, the children grew up, and when they were old enough, I started seeking work elsewhere. There was no support, so I had to do it all myself.
First I went to Ireland, and then eventually landed in England. The early days were tough, with odd jobs and long hours before I finally found decent work. Month after month, I sent money back, and over time, Id managed to buy both children a flat each. I even treated myself to refurbishing my little home. I was proud of all Id achieved. I was starting to think about moving back to my town for good, but life had other plansa year ago, I met someone. He was English, but his family had roots in my home country, although hed lived here in England for over twenty years. We grew close, and I began to hope for something more with him.
Doubts, however, gnawed at me. Jack couldnt leave England, but I missed my own home. Just a few days ago, I returned for a visit. I saw my children first, then spent time with my parents. But I couldnt seem to make time for my in-laws, my late husbands parents. Life was simply so busy. Then one afternoon, my friend Sarah, who works in a bakery, popped round and shared a bit of gossip:
Your mother-in-law is terribly upset with you.
Whatever for? I asked.
I overheard her chatting with someone in the shop. She said youre stuck-up now, and too much money has gone to your head. And she feels you never helped them out financially while you were away.
Hearing that was a blow. Id raised both children with barely any help. There simply wasnt enough to support my in-laws as wellI had to look after myself, too.
After that, I dreaded visiting. Still, I swallowed my pride, bought a hamper of groceries, and went. At first they were polite, but I couldnt shake those hurtful words. Eventually, I spoke up.
I want you both to understandits been anything but easy all these years. I did the best I could for the children, and I honestly had nowhere else to turn for help.
My mother-in-law sighed, Weve also had to manage on our own. Other peoples children look after their parents, but not uswere left on our own. You ought to have come back and helped us.
Her words felt like a blow. I couldnt even bring myself to mention Jack or my life in England. I left feeling terribly low. Now I find myself wonderingam I really meant to support my late husbands parents? Im so worn out.
But upon quiet reflection, I realise that sometimes even our very best isnt enough to meet everyones expectations. Were only human, and we cant carry every burden. Doing what we can, with kindness and honesty, is what we owe ourselvesand those we love.
