And here’s the part that might make some of you angry, but I’m going to say it anyway.
If your parents hurt you, if they were cruel or dangerous, this story is not about them. Protect your peace. Protect your kids. Nobody has the right to demand access to your life if they failed to keep you safe.
But if your parents were imperfect and tired and human and tried their best to love you, and they are now sitting in a quiet house like mine… then yes, I’m asking you to feel a little guilty.
I’m asking you to let that knot in your stomach change your behavior, not just your mood.
Because love without effort is just sentiment. Love without inconvenience is just a Hallmark card. And love without time is just a memory waiting to happen.
You don’t owe your parents your whole life.
But you do owe them a phone call that isn’t rushed, a visit that isn’t an afterthought, a holiday where you aren’t checking your watch every ten minutes.
One day, you’ll be the one sitting at a table set for one, wondering if anyone is going to walk through that door. And I hope, for your sake, that the example you set now teaches your own kids exactly what to do.
Not because fear is a good motivator.
But because the quiet of an old house is louder than any argument on the internet.
So argue in the comments if you want. Tell me I’m old-fashioned. Tell me the economy is hard and life is complicated.
You’ll probably be right.
But while you’re typing, do me one favor.
Look at the clock.
If it’s not too late where they are, call your mother. Call your father. Ask again when they say, “I’m fine.”
Listen between the words.
And if there’s even a tiny crack in their voice, that’s your sign.
Turn the car around.
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This story is a work of fiction created for entertainment and inspirational purposes. While it may draw on real-world themes, all characters, names, and events are imagined. Any resemblance to actual people or situations is purely coincidenta
