I’ve always given a part of my salary to support my parents. It was my way of thanking them for everything they had done for me. But after my wife and I welcomed our first child, our expenses grew. Diapers, doctor visits, and countless baby needs made it clear we needed to adjust our budget.
One evening, I sat my parents down and gently explained, “Money’s a bit tight right now. I won’t be able to send as much for a while. I hope you both understand.” My parents nodded, though I noticed a flicker of disappointment in my mother’s eyes.
The very next day, I came home from work to find my wife sitting on the couch, tears streaming down her face. Alarmed, I rushed to her side and asked what had happened. Through shaky breaths, she held out her phone and whispered, “Your mother sent me a message.”
I took the phone and read the message. It wasn’t anger or blame — it was love. My mother had written, “Take care of the baby first. You’ve built a beautiful family, and that’s the greatest gift you could give us. We’ll manage. Just promise me you’ll visit often.” My heart swelled with gratitude. That night, I hugged my wife and baby tightly, realizing that true family support isn’t measured in money, but in understanding and unconditional love.