When I first brought my elderly mother to live with me, I thought it would be difficult. How her move changed my life.
Life sometimes shifts our plans so unexpectedly that we hardly notice how quickly we find ourselves in a completely different reality. Thats exactly what happened to me. I was used to living alone in the city, enjoying my independence. My mother had lived in the countryside, and while my father was alive, everything felt natural. But after he passed, the world changed.
The first time I felt uneasy was during a visit to her. She had always been a strong, independent woman, but now she seemed lost and afraid, like a child left without support. Her sad eyes and the way she askedher voice tremblingfor me to stay just one more day stayed with me long after I left. I couldnt leave her alone after that.
I realised my mother needed constant care and attention, so I made a decisionId bring her to the city to live with me. That day, she packed just a small bag. What surprised me most was that among her few belongings was an old pillow and a set of bedsheets Id given her years ago. “Why these?” I wondered. Maybe they reminded her of a time when everything was still peaceful and familiar.
It was hard for her to leave the home where shed spent her entire life. Even short visits to the city had always been a challenge. Now, she had to leave behind everything she knew and loved. It hurt to see her sadness, but I hoped shed find comfort with me.
The first few days were toughmy mother slowly adjusted to her new surroundings. She moved carefully through the house, as if afraid of disturbing anything. She spent hours sitting quietly in her room, reading prayers, hardly stepping out. But after two weeks, I noticed a change. Little by little, she came back to life. Her eyes began to shine again when I returned from work. Shed wait for me at the door, and in her gaze, I saw how much she missed me.
We started cooking dinner together. Id watch the soft evening light catch her silver hair as she carefully chopped vegetables. Sometimes, Id gently touch her hand to draw her into conversation, and in her eyes, Id see a mix of gratitude and affection.
But what surprised me most was what happened to me. Youd think Id feel exhaustedwork, new responsibilities, caring for my mother. And yet, instead of feeling drained, I found my life gaining new meaning, a warmth Id lost in solitude. Every evening, I hurried home, knowing I wasnt returning to an empty flat but to someone for whom I meant everything.
Now, I believe my mothers prayers changed everything. Quiet and sincere, they filled my home with peace and warmth. A stillness settled in, so deep that often Id lose myself in childhood memoriesa time when everything felt simple and safe.
I dont know how much time we have left together, but I cherish every day. Mum, thank you for being here. You didnt just change my homeyou changed my heart.
