“Can you help with my bills?” I texted my retired mother, watching those three dots appear with hopeful anticipation. Her reply shattered me: “I worked my whole life to give you opportunities. Now it’s your turn.”
Fuming, I called to argue. But our conversation took an unexpected turn. Instead of writing a check, she offered to teach me budgeting skills. Reluctantly, I accepted. We pored over bank statements, identified wasteful spending, and created a repayment plan.
At first, I resented her “tough love” approach. But as my financial situation improved, so did our relationship. Her refusal to enable me became the greatest gift—the ability to stand on my own. Now I understand: true parental love sometimes means saying no.
