Due to the impact of COVID-19, our family’s financial situation became difficult. Wanting to help even a little, I started working part-time at a barbecue restaurant near our home. I usually came back quite late after my shift. Around that time, I noticed something: My high school daughter was always using the bathroom right when I got home. I didn’t know why she chose that exact moment to shower, but I didn’t ask.
One night, I arrived home later than usual because I stayed to have dinner with the restaurant owners. My daughter immediately asked why I was late and told me she had already showered. Then she added softly:
“I try to shower just before you get home so the warm water will be ready for you right away.”
At our house, the hot water takes a long time to heat up. My daughter had been timing her showers so I could come home and enjoy warm water without waiting. Realizing this, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude. I hugged her tightly and told her how much I loved her.
When I first began my part-time job, she had sent me a long text message filled with encouragement and love. I cried so much reading it. On rainy days, she would meet me outside with an umbrella. At home, she took care of the chores so I could rest as soon as I walked in the door.
I used to think of her as just my little girl—but somewhere along the way, she grew up. Now she feels like a strong, reliable presence beside me. She’s my treasure, something I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world. And I am truly, deeply happy to be her mom.