When he was little, my son was full of affection and always clung to me. But once he entered adolescence, he began to drift away, choosing time with his friends over time with his mom. And now that he’s an adult living on his own, I hardly get to see him at all.
I know it’s natural for grown children to leave the nest and become independent, but I couldn’t help feeling a bit empty. Even when he stopped by the house, it was usually just for a quick errand before rushing off again. I’d tell myself, “It’s just because he’s busy,” but deep down, I felt a small sting of loneliness—probably because I simply missed him and wanted more time together.
It’s true what they say: Parental love often feels one-sided.
Then one day, he called. My voice was a little hoarse from the changing weather, and as soon as he heard me, he asked,
“Mom, is everything okay?”
“Why? What’s wrong?”
“You sound weak. I was worried you might be sick.”
“It’s just my throat—the season’s changing, that’s all.”
“Still, take care of yourself, okay?”
His concern warmed my heart. But what happened the next day surprised me even more.
In the middle of the day—during what should have been his busiest work hours—my son appeared at the house without warning.
“Is something wrong, son? Are you unwell? Did someone upset you?” I asked, startled.
“No, I’m fine. Nothing happened,” he said. “I just wanted to check on you in person. Your voice didn’t sound right yesterday, and I wanted to make sure you were really okay. And I brought you sushi—your favorite. I’m always grateful to you and Dad, but I’ve been so caught up in my own life that I haven’t done much for you. I’m sorry.”
Hearing his sincere words filled my heart with joy. That day, we talked for a long time—truly talked, something we hadn’t done in ages. I offered him some advice about things he’d been worried about, and he responded with words full of warmth and love.
All the quiet disappointment I had carried inside melted away. We promised to be more open with our feelings and to keep encouraging one another.
I was reminded once again that expressing love face-to-face deepens family bonds. Maybe that’s why the moments we spend with family feel so precious.