love story of my parents essay

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Narrative Essay: I Love My Parents

Parents are the closest people that we have in our lives, whether we realize it or not. They love us not because we are smart, beautiful, successful or we have a good sense of humour, but just because we are their children. I, too, love mom and dad simply because they are my parents, but I think I would have felt the same even if they weren’t. I love who they are as people, each with their own individual traits – and, together, forming an amazing super-team that’s made me who I am today and taught me what life is all about.

My mother is a cheerful, chatty perfectionist who seems to always find something to get excited about and who can talk for hours about animals and flowers. She is never afraid to speak her mind and she can be very convincing when she wants to. She sometimes get upset a bit too easily, but she is just as quick to forgive and forget. I love mom for all that she is – even when she’s angry – for all that she has done for me, and for all that she’s taught me. My mom has been through a lot throughout the years, but she always kept fighting.She taught me to never lose hope even in the direst of moments, and she showed me how to look for happiness in the small things. She’s been trying to teach me to be more organized as well, but hasn’t succeeded yet. I love her for that too.

My father is quiet, patient and calm, and he has an adorable hit-and-miss sense of humour. I may not always find his jokes that funny, but I love him for trying. Dad almost never gets angry and he is always polite, friendly and nice to everyone. He is not the one to verbalize emotions, but he always shows his feelings through sweet gestures and little surprizes. He is the pacifist in our family and never goes against mom’s wishes, but he runs a large company witha firm hand. I love my father for all these characteristics and for all he’s sacrificed to build a better life for us. He’s worked day and night to ensure we afford good education and have a rich, wonderful childhood, and he has passed up many great opportunities for the benefit of our family. I love dad because he’s taught me that you cannot have it all in life, but with hard work and dedication, you can have what matters most to you.

Mom and dad may be very different people, but they complement each other perfectly. Together, they formed a super-team that was always there – and, thankfully, still is – to provide comfort, nurturing, and support and help me grow as a person. Their complementary personalities bring balance in our family, and each of them steps in whenever they are needed the most. Together, they taught me to believe in myself and have turned me into a fighter. Their care and dedication towards me and each other has served as an example of what healthy relationships should be like, and I love and admire them for that.

I love my parents because they are my parents, my good friends, my heroes, my role models, my safe haven, my pillars of strength.I am who I am today thanks to them, and I know that their support and affection will play an essential role in what I will become in the future.All I can hope is that, when I have children of my own, I will be half as good a parent as they were to me.

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My parents: A modern love story

I’ve grown up surrounded by love stories, however, my favorite is my parent’s. Their love story started out as quite the opposite. Back in 1983, on Thanksgiving, my parents met skiing when they shared the same condo. My dad, a rebel/bad boy, and my mom, straight-edge and kind, started off on the wrong foot and it stayed like that for years. They ran in the same circles as they had grown to have the same friends, but nothing changed between them until the fateful Halloween night of 1988. He was dressed in suit and tie and she as the beautiful Cleopatra. He went home that night with two phone numbers, but only one mattered: my mom’s.

They dated for five years and then in 1992, my mom was offered a job in Singapore with the company she worked for. That Christmas, my dad proposed and she made the easy decision to stay in the states with him over moving across the world and starting her life over. She had her masters and was able to stay with the company in Massachusetts so this decision didn’t affect her financially. They were married that following July in the backyard of the house my dad grew up in. It was a small, intimate wedding with a live band filled with magic and love.

They spent their honeymoon just like the rest of their marriage, exploring. Specifically, the wildlife of Alaska in kayaks and tents. They waited three years to have their first kid (me!) and spent those years traveling across the world together just as they had while they were dating. With me in the picture, they took me with them. 

Soon, my sister joined our family and she came along to explore the world with us. Then they adopted my brother. When he was diagnosed with cancer, and eventually lost his battle, my family was stronger and closer than ever. My parents stayed strong through it all but still showed their emotions in a healthy manner. A few years later, they adopted my other brother and supported and loved him just as they had/do with their other children. Currently, they are going through the adoption process again and soon, they will have their fifth kid! 

They have been through a lot over the last 34 years, but have been there supporting each other through it all. My dad still brings her flowers from their garden. He picks them and puts them in a vase on the kitchen table for her and when those die, he replenishes them with a new bouquet. He is also a musician in a band and she still goes to all of his gigs acting like his own personal groupie.  

What I have learned through watching them interact with each other is something I will keep with me for the rest of my life. I know what a healthy and successful relationship looks like and won’t accept anything less. Through their love for each other, the love has spread to us and from us to others. Their children are accepting, loving, empathetic, adventurous, outgoing, spontaneous and fun-loving because of them and their love. 

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Student Essays

9 Essays on My Parents | Why I Love my Mom & Dad [ 2024 ]

Our parents are our heroes. We can never deny the role and value of parents in our life. The following essay discusses the importance, role, love, and sacrifices of parents for children.

Essay on Parents For Children & Students

The life without parents is a worst life ever. Parents are support and shade for us. The value of parents in our lives can never be ignored. They play a very great role in our lives. They protect us and give every sacrifice to make us happy and pleased. Parents are our true guardians. The are the real reasons of our success and happiness in this world.

I Love my Parents

I love my parents. They are standing beside me in my every walk of life. My hero is my mom. She wakes up early in the morning. She works for our family from dawn to dusk. She is the best house manager. She takes care of everything in our house.

As soon she wakes up, she starts thinking about ourselves. She runs to the kitchen. She prepares tasty breakfast for us. Her breakfast is always delicious. She takes great care in making the food of our choice. After making our tasty breakfast, my mother quickly fills up our lunch boxes with tasty food.

She always fills our lunch boxes with additional tasty food so that we can share that our friends. I really appreciate my parents and especially my mom.

The Role of Mother & Father in our Life

The love of mother is simply matchless. Soon after we come home after school is up, we always find our mother standing at the gate of our house. We feel very pleased and my mother hugs all of us.

Read Also: My Father Essays & Paragraphs For Students

She take great care of our health. She regularly consult with our family doctor so that we stay healthy and strong. in addition to housework, my mother also help us in our school homework. She is best at drawing. She drawing fancy pictures, portraits and cartoons. We all feel wonderful at her drawing skills.

My hero is my dad. The father is always considered as an unsung hero. But it is not the fact. In addition to mother, the value, role and responsibility of father is always prideful. We all greatly love our father. My father is an Engineer. Though he is always busy in his schedule yet he takes good care of all of us.

We all family members go to weekly dinner and sightseeing outside. In addition to that, during our summer vacation we all family members go to country side trip. We all enjoy a lot there. My father is always concerned for everything about us. Though he is busy in his job yet he always remembers everything about us.

The love of parents for their children is of great value . Had there been no support of parents we would not have been here. We would not have smiled, laughed and became successful. Therefore, we must appreciate our parents for so many reasons.

We must try to help our parents by fulfilling their desires of being successful. We must thank God for blessing us with the support, guide and protection of our parents. May our Parents live long happily and peacefully.

Essay on My Parents for Class 1:

My parents are the most important people in my life. They have always been there for me, supporting and guiding me through every step of my journey. I am very lucky to have them as my parents.

My mother is a homemaker and she takes care of our family with so much love and dedication. She wakes up early every day to prepare delicious meals for us and makes sure that our home is always clean and organized. She has taught me the value of hard work, discipline and kindness.

My father is a businessman and he works very hard to provide for our family. He has always encouraged me to follow my dreams and never give up on them. He has also instilled in me the importance of being responsible and independent.

Together, my parents have raised me to be a kind, compassionate and responsible person. They have always supported my education and extracurricular activities, and have taught me the importance of balancing both.

I am grateful for all the sacrifices they have made for me and I hope to make them proud in everything I do. My parents are my role models and I aspire to be like them one day. Their unconditional love and support is something I will always cherish. I am blessed to have them as my parents.

Essay on My Parents For Class 2:

My parents are the most important people in my life. They take care of me, love me unconditionally and support me in everything I do. I feel blessed to have such wonderful parents.

My mom is a kind and loving person. She works hard to provide for our family and always puts our needs before her own. She makes the best food and always makes sure that I am well-fed and healthy. She also helps me with my studies and teaches me important values like honesty, kindness, and compassion.

My dad is my hero. He is a strong and hardworking man who always puts his family first. He is my role model and has taught me to never give up on my dreams. He plays with me, takes me to the park and helps me with my homework. I love spending time with him.

I am lucky to have such loving parents who always support and encourage me. We share a special bond that cannot be described in words. They are always there for me when I need someone to talk to or when I need a shoulder to cry on.

My parents mean everything to me. They have given me the best childhood and have taught me important life lessons. I am grateful for their love, care, and guidance. I hope to make them proud in everything I do. I will always cherish the memories we create together as a family and will forever be grateful for having such amazing parents . So, I will always love and respect them with all my heart. They are my superheroes! They are the foundation of my happiness and success in life

Essay on My Parents For Class 3

My parents are the most amazing people in my life. They have given me the best gift of all time, which is my life. I am so grateful to them for bringing me into this world and making me who I am today.

My father is a hardworking man. He works tirelessly every day to provide for our family. He never complains and always puts his family first. I have learned the value of hard work and determination from him.

My mother is a kind, caring, and loving person. She takes care of us in every way possible. She makes sure that we are well-fed, clean, and happy at all times. She also teaches me important values like respect, honesty, and compassion.

Together, my parents make a great team. They support each other in every decision they make and always put their family first. They have taught me the importance of family and how to be there for your loved ones no matter what.

I am truly blessed to have such amazing parents who love me unconditionally and have always been there for me through thick and thin . I cannot imagine my life without them and I will always be grateful for everything they have done for me.

In conclusion, my parents are the best gift of my life. They are my role models, my teachers, and my biggest supporters. I am proud to call them my parents and I hope to make them proud in everything I do. So, we all should love and respect our parents as they are the ones who have given us this beautiful life. They deserve all the love and appreciation in the world. Let’s cherish them and make them feel special every day! So, let’s take a moment to thank our parents for everything they have done for us and continue to do so.

Essay on My Parents For Class 4:

My parents are the most important people in my life. They have shaped me into the person I am today and have always been there for me through thick and thin. In this essay, I will be talking about my parents and how they play a vital role in my life.

My Parents – My Pillars of Strength

My mother is a homemaker and my father is a businessman. They both have different personalities but complement each other perfectly. My mother is kind, gentle and always puts others before herself. My father is hardworking, ambitious and always strives to achieve his goals.

Lessons Learned from my Parents

From my parents, I have learned many important life lessons that have helped me become a better person. They have taught me the value of hard work, determination and perseverance. They have always encouraged me to follow my dreams and never give up no matter how difficult the journey may be.

Role Models for Life

Both my parents are my role models. They have shown me what it means to be selfless, loving and caring towards others. They have also instilled important values in me such as honesty, respect, and responsibility. Their unconditional love and support inspire me to be a better person every day.

Supporting Me in Every Step of My Journey

My parents have always been there for me no matter what. They have supported my decisions and stood by me through all the ups and downs of life. Their guidance and encouragement have helped me overcome challenges and achieve my goals.

My parents are my greatest blessings. They are the ones who have always believed in me and pushed me to be the best version of myself. I am grateful for their love, sacrifices, and dedication towards our family. I hope to make them proud by becoming a successful and responsible individual just like them

Essay on My Parents For Class 6

My parents are the most important people in my life. They have always been there for me, supporting and guiding me through every step of my journey. I am truly grateful to have them as my role models.

My father is a hardworking man who has taught me the value of perseverance and dedication. He works tirelessly to provide us with all the comforts of life and never complains about his responsibilities. He is my strength and I know that I can always count on him for anything.

My mother is the epitome of love, care and sacrifice. She has always put our needs before her own and has taught me to be selfless. She has instilled in me the importance of education and has been my biggest cheerleader throughout my academic journey.

Together, my parents have taught me the true meaning of love, respect and family. They have always been there to celebrate my successes and lift me up in times of failures. They have made countless sacrifices to ensure that I receive the best opportunities in life.

Apart from being amazing parents, they are also wonderful individuals who inspire me every day. My father’s intelligence and my mother’s kindness are traits that I admire and hope to emulate.

I am truly blessed to have such loving, caring and supportive parents who have shaped me into the person I am today. They are my biggest blessings and I will always be grateful for their unconditional love and unwavering support. So, I want to thank them from the bottom of my heart for everything they have done for me and continue to do. I hope to make them proud in all my future endeavors and be there for them just like they have been there for me. My parents are my greatest treasure and I am forever grateful to have them in my life.

Essay on Parents Role in our Life:

Parents are the first and most important teachers in a child’s life. They play a crucial role in shaping their children’s behaviors, attitudes and beliefs. From infancy to adulthood, parents guide and support their children to reach their full potential.

One of the primary responsibilities of parents is to provide love and care for their child. Children need a nurturing environment where they feel loved, safe and appreciated. This enables them to develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence, which is essential for their emotional well-being.

Parents also have the responsibility to instill values and morals in their children. They act as role models for their kids and teach them important life lessons such as honesty, respect, kindness, empathy and responsibility. These values shape the character of children and help them become responsible, compassionate and ethical individuals.

Moreover, parents are the first ones to introduce their children to education. They encourage and support their kids in learning new things, whether at home or in school. Parents also play a crucial role in monitoring their child’s academic progress, providing necessary resources and helping them overcome any challenges they may face.

Aside from these roles, parents also serve as a source of emotional support for their children. They are there to listen, comfort and guide their kids through tough times. This support is vital in helping children develop resilience and coping skills.

In conclusion, parents play a significant role in the development of their children. From providing love and care to instilling values, encouraging education and offering emotional support, parents are the cornerstone of a child’s growth and well-being. We must recognize and appreciate the important role that parents play in our lives, and strive to support and learn from them as we navigate through life.

My Relationship with My Parents Essay:

Parents are the first and most important teachers in our lives. They are the ones who guide us, nurture us and support us through thick and thin. My parents have played a crucial role in shaping me into the person I am today.

Early Childhood

I still remember my early childhood days when my parents used to take care of all my needs without any complaints. They were always there to hold my hand and teach me the basic things in life such as walking, talking and eating. My parents were patient and loving, which helped me develop a strong bond with them.

My parents have always been involved in my education right from the start. They constantly motivated me to do well in school and encouraged me to pursue my interests. They were always there to help me with my homework, attend parent-teacher meetings and guide me in making important decisions about my academic future.

Apart from providing me with a solid education, my parents have also been my biggest support system. Whenever I faced any challenges or setbacks in life, they were the ones who stood by me and helped me get through it. Their unwavering love and support gave me the confidence to overcome any obstacle that came my way.

In conclusion, I am truly grateful for everything that my parents have done for me. They have been my pillars of strength and continue to be my biggest role models. I owe all my success and achievements to their constant love, guidance and support. I am lucky to have such amazing parents who have always been there for me, and I will always be grateful for their unwavering love and support. Overall, my relationship with my parents is the most precious and cherished bond in my life.

Respect of Parents Essay in English:

As children, we are taught to respect our parents. They are the ones who brought us into this world and have raised us with love and care. Our parents sacrifice their time, energy and resources to provide for us and ensure that we have a good life.

Respect towards our parents should come naturally as they are our first teachers. They instill values in us and guide us to become responsible and respectable individuals. It is important to show gratitude and appreciation towards our parents for all that they do for us.

We must always treat our parents with love, kindness and understanding, just as they have treated us throughout our lives. This will not only bring happiness and harmony in the family but also help us build strong relationships with our parents that will last a lifetime. So, let us never forget to respect and cherish our parents always.

Role of Parents in Bringing Up Child Essay:

The role of parents in bringing up a child is a crucial one. Parents are the first and most important teachers for their children, as they shape their child’s personality, values and beliefs. From the moment a child is born, parents are responsible for providing love, care and guidance to help them grow into responsible adults.

One of the primary responsibilities of parents is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their child. This includes meeting their basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as providing emotional support and stability. Parents also play a significant role in instilling discipline and teaching good manners to their child.

Furthermore, parents are also responsible for fostering a positive relationship with their child. This involves spending quality time together, having open and honest communication, and being actively involved in their child’s life. By doing so, parents can help their child develop healthy self-esteem, confidence and a sense of belonging.

In addition to these responsibilities, parents also serve as role models for their children. Children often imitate the behavior and attitudes of their parents, which is why it is crucial for parents to lead by example and demonstrate positive values and behaviors.

In conclusion, the role of parents in bringing up a child cannot be overstated. They provide love, support, guidance, and serve as role models to help their child grow into a responsible and well-rounded individual. It is a challenging but incredibly rewarding role that requires patience, understanding, and unconditional love.

• How do I write an essay about my parents? To write an essay about your parents, focus on their roles in your life, their influence, and the impact they’ve had on your upbringing and personal development. Share personal anecdotes and express your feelings and gratitude.
• What is the importance of parents in our life essay? In an essay about the importance of parents in our life, discuss their role in nurturing, supporting, and guiding us. Emphasize how they contribute to our emotional and social development and provide a sense of security and love.
• What do you expect from your parents essay? In an essay about what you expect from your parents, you can discuss your hopes and needs regarding support, understanding, guidance, and the qualities you value in their parenting.
• How do I write an essay about my mother? When writing an essay about your mother, describe her characteristics, her role in your life, and her influence on your development. Share anecdotes and express your appreciation and love for her.

34 thoughts on “9 Essays on My Parents | Why I Love my Mom & Dad [ 2024 ]”

Very nice essay it’s written in a matured way about our parents and the role played by them in our lives . They are the real heroes in our life . What is written in the first line is true. I love this composition or essay very much.

Really nice essay

Yes this is a nice essay for me. About our parents and what they did for us. So all of u respect your parents including me…

It is very nice

Good…. Let our kids know the value of their parents…… . 😊😊😊

I really appreciate on your essay a very good n true lines on our parents how u have been type d essay sem even my parents r like

Parents are the candles ther lights us the way of success they are really fabulous for me

nobody on earth can ever love you more than your parent but i did not have parents

You should know that if you do not have a family that loves and protects you, know that God loves you and protects you always 🙂

After reading this esaay respect for my parents increases in my heart i always love them

Amazing essay……. Thanx for this contribution.. 😀😀😀😄😄😀😀😀

I got emotional when I was reading. Thank you.

It is really a good essay on

It’s so much nice superpb👍👍👍!!

It’s very good.

Thanks For Your Words!

Nice think ever thank you for creating

My Pleasure!

FAM nice essay.

we never know the love of parent till we become a parent ourselves

True that! Thanks for kind words

Without parents we are really nothing

Yes it true parents are our hero

The world will give way to those who have goals and visions

Sooo emotional essay

Very nice essay…..👌👌👌👌

very very nice

Wow, It realized me that how parents are importan

We should pray to God that he should give the strength to keep our parents in peace. We should always respect our parents because without parents live is useless.

Very good essay ✌✌✌✌✌

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• My Parents Essay

500 Words Essay On My Parents

We entered this world because of our parents. It is our parents who have given us life and we must learn to be pleased with it. I am grateful to my parents for everything they do for me. Through my parents essay, I wish to convey how valuable they are to me and how much I respect and admire them.

My Strength My Parents Essay

My parents are my strength who support me at every stage of life. I cannot imagine my life without them. My parents are like a guiding light who take me to the right path whenever I get lost.

My mother is a homemaker and she is the strongest woman I know. She helps me with my work and feeds me delicious foods . She was a teacher but left the job to take care of her children.

My mother makes many sacrifices for us that we are not even aware of. She always takes care of us and puts us before herself. She never wakes up late. Moreover, she is like a glue that binds us together as a family.

Parents are the strength and support system of their children. They carry with them so many responsibilities yet they never show it. We must be thankful to have parents in our lives as not everyone is lucky to have them.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

While my mother is always working at home, my father is the one who works outside. He is a kind human who always helps out my mother whenever he can. He is a loving man who helps out the needy too.

My father is a social person who interacts with our neighbours too. Moreover, he is an expert at maintaining his relationship with our relatives. My father works as a businessman and does a lot of hard work.

Even though he is a busy man, he always finds time for us. We spend our off days going to picnics or dinners. I admire my father for doing so much for us without any complaints.

He is a popular man in society as he is always there to help others. Whoever asks for his help, my father always helps them out. Therefore, he is a well-known man and a loving father whom I look up to.

Conclusion of My Parents Essay

I love both my parents with all my heart. They are kind people who have taught their children to be the same. Moreover, even when they have arguments, they always make up without letting it affect us. I aspire to become like my parents and achieve success in life with their blessings.

FAQ of My Parents Essay

Question 1: Why parents are important in our life?

Answer 1: Parents are the most precious gifts anyone can get. However, as not everyone has them, we must consider ourselves lucky if we do. They are the strength and support system of children and help them out always. Moreover, the parents train the children to overcome challenges and make the best decision for us.

Question 2: What do parents mean to us?

Answer 2: Parents mean different things to different people. To most of us, they are our source of happiness and protection. They are the ones who are the closest to us and understand our needs without having to say them out loud. Similarly, they love us unconditionally for who we are without any ifs and buts.

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• Telling the Love Story of Parents

Telling the Love Story of Parents - Essay Example

• Subject: Sociology
• Type: Essay
• Level: High School
• Pages: 3 (750 words)
• Downloads: 49
• Author: etoy

Extract of sample "Telling the Love Story of Parents"

My grandmother told me when my father started dating my mother who was the pearl of her family and as different from him as two people could be she had her reservations. “Your father, she said, barely finished high school and once or twice got in trouble with the law and frankly I doubted he would make a very good son-in-law. “The first time she brought him home it was very awkward because your grandfather was the policeman, who had arrested him for being involved in a street brawl with some other youths in the town”.

 Moreover, she said, “Your granddad almost had a fight, I was apprehensive at first because I had heard a lot of unflattering things about him, but your dad actually behaved remarkably well although he was clearly terrified of, his father Future Father in law”.  Furthermore, “After he left, your grandpa and your mum got into a big fight, and he said she would have nothing to do with an ill-mannered person.” (I had a hard time picturing that since I had always known the two men to be best of friends and drinking buddies).

  On the other hand, my mother retorted that she would not be told what to do. Despite the parental injunction, she continued seeing my father, however, is a classic romantic story way, my grandfather was determined to stop him from marrying her and my parents were set on doing the opposite. My grandfather sent my mother away to college in town hoping it would sever the bond; however, after her departure, my dad also disappeared from town, and applied to the same college; thus, it turned out my grandfather’s plan only served to bring them closer.

They became college-mates and there their relationship flourished, my father eventually e lost his rough edges, and although they never came home together,  as it was a well-known secret that they were an item away from town.  My grandmother had come to terms with their love and although it took time, my grandfather too got used to the idea, although they never talked about it. After four years, they both graduated, and to everyone’s surprise, my father was on top of the class and won a scholarship, he was very different from being a clumsy person as my grandfather had arrested years ago, as this time around he asked my mum to invite him.

Both of them pretended they had never met before, seemingly starting from a clean slate from that point on the relationship between the two improved until they became very close friends.  By then, it was quite obvious that the couple was going to remain a couple and they announced their intention to get married which was well received and they four months after they left college they were married by the local priest in a well-attended wedding.

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Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Sorry, Hallmark…My Parents Had the Best Love Story

Their time together wasn’t nearly long enough, but their love story was more romantic than any Hallmark movie and more powerful than any ‘80s power ballad. They showed their love, not with big, sweeping romantic gestures like the ones you do see on those lovey-dovey Hallmark movies. Instead, you saw their love shine through in the everyday moments — those tiny pockets of reality that seem so mundane on the surface. Like when my dad rubbed my mom’s back every night. Like when my mom sat through every single Terminator movie even though that was the last thing she wanted to do.

These aren’t the sorts of moments you’d find in a rom-com, but then again, maybe that’s the entire point. Rom-coms are meant to be spectacular, but there’s just as much value and even more romance in living day-to-day with someone. Perhaps that’s even more special because you really get to know the person; I’ve never seen two people as bonded as my parents, two people who loved each other as if it was their wedding day every day.

I’m so grateful they got to experience it every day they were together and I wish they could spend their twilight years together. They both deserved that. More than any other two people in the entire world. I’m so grateful that I got to see what true love looks like because it is real and beautiful. You won’t find that in any Hallmark script, will you??? xoxo

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Linda Fitzgerald says

Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at 10:42 pm

Happy Anniversary!! What a great story of love. They were so cute (and young)!

Jackie says

Monday, June 15, 2020 at 6:30 pm

Your parents and their love story are beautiful. Truly. Thank you for sharing with us!

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Essay on My Parents

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Parents in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Parents

Introduction.

My parents are my greatest strength. They are my guiding stars who always show me the right path.

My father is a hardworking man. He is always dedicated to his work and helps us in our studies and other activities.

My mother is a homemaker and an amazing cook. Her love and care are the pillars of our family.

In conclusion, my parents are my heroes. They always inspire me to become a better person.

250 Words Essay on My Parents

My parents, the lighthouses in the tempestuous sea of life, have been my constant source of inspiration and guidance. Their influence has been pivotal in shaping me into the person I am today.

My Father: The Pillar of Strength

My father, a paragon of discipline and determination, has always been my role model. His relentless pursuit of his goals, despite the hurdles, has taught me the importance of perseverance. His wisdom, gleaned from a life of experiences, has often been my compass in making crucial decisions.

My Mother: The Beacon of Love

My mother, on the other hand, is the epitome of love and compassion. Her gentle yet firm nature has taught me the delicate balance between kindness and assertiveness. Her ability to find joy in the smallest things is a lesson in gratitude and contentment.

Lessons Learned

Both my parents have instilled in me the values of honesty, integrity, and respect for all. They have taught me to be resilient in the face of adversity, to strive for excellence, and to never compromise on my principles.

In conclusion, my parents have been my guiding stars, their teachings my roadmap, and their love my constant support. They have not only given me life but also equipped me with the tools to navigate it successfully. I am, and will always be, a reflection of their teachings and values.

500 Words Essay on My Parents

The pillars of my life: my parents, the foundation of love and sacrifice.

My parents have always epitomized love and sacrifice. From the moment I was born, they prioritized my needs above their own, often going without so that I could have. Their sacrifices were not limited to material possessions but extended to their time, energy, and personal aspirations. They worked tirelessly, often juggling multiple jobs, to ensure that I had a comfortable life and a promising future.

Nurturing Growth and Independence

While they provided me with a safe and loving environment, they also encouraged me to be independent and self-reliant. They taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance, and they instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and accountability. They were not ones to shield me from the harsh realities of life; instead, they equipped me with the skills and the mindset to face them head-on.

Teaching by Example

My parents, my role models.

As I grew older, I started to appreciate the depth of their wisdom and the breadth of their knowledge. They became my role models, not just as parents but as individuals. Their humility, despite their accomplishments; their generosity, despite their hardships; and their optimism, despite their struggles, have inspired me to strive to be a better person.

Gratitude and Appreciation

As I stand on the cusp of adulthood, I realize the magnitude of their contribution to my life. I am grateful for their unwavering support, their unconditional love, and their relentless faith in me. They have been my pillars of strength, my beacon of hope, and my source of inspiration.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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How My Parents' Unique Story Shaped My Understanding Of Love

My mom first told me my father had “saved” her at my grandmother’s (third) wedding. My aunt had unintentionally traumatized my siblings and me by dropping the ill-timed news that my mother had been married before she was married to my father. To a 5-year-old, your mother being married before does not seem possible. Marriage is only supposed to happen one time . Divorce is not something you can understand. And so, the story was drafted to fit the temperament of a herd of small children: My father was a knight in shining armor. He was very wealthy. My mother was damsel in distress being held captive by an evil man. My father saved her. It was a fairytale.

Strangely enough, the story hasn’t changed all that much since the version I was fed as a little girl. As I got older, I learned more of the gritty details. I picked up stories of my mother’s ex husband’s constant philandering, how my mom was the sole breadwinner, how her husband would spend her hard earned paychecks on other women. Pretty gruesome stuff.

My parents met at a benefit. My dad had a table. When he saw my mom, it was love at first sight. I learned that my dad pretended to be my mom’s friend for quite some time. He obviously wanted more, but was waiting around for my mom to figure it out. One day my mother called him crying. Her electricity had been turned off. Her husband was supposed to pay the bill, but hadn’t. My father called the company, paid the bill, and had her lights turned back on. Spoiler: They DID fall in love.

The only bizarre detail was something I learned during my teenage years: That my father hadn’t saved my mother in the figurative sense, but in a very literal sense.

Over sliders at a neighborhood restaurant he told me how my mother’s ex husband was refusing to give her a divorce so she could marry my dad and be happy, “I just gave him a bunch of money and then he said yes.” My father hadn’t saved my mother in the figurative sense, but in a very literal sense. My dad literally bought my mother’s ex husband off so he’d GTFO of the picture. To a 15-year-old, this is the epitome of romance.

This story has been the foundation for me since the beginning of my understanding of love. It was the basis for how I understood relationships.

I assumed that you go about your life and then one day, a handsome wonderful man will save you and make you a princess the way my father had with my mother. For the majority of my adolescence, I wanted a man who would give me a grand lifestyle, buy me lots of clothes and jewels, and worship me. Forgive me, I was just a child and hadn’t entered the Women’s Studies section of the library yet.

I didn’t realize how hard I’d have to work for everything I have and how rewarding working hard would be until I experienced it.

It wasn’t until college that I was able to sort out all of the problematic implications of this kind of thinking. It’s not my parents' fault. They fell in love. My dad had a lot of money. My mom wanted to be a stay-at-home mom. There is nothing wrong with this. They have a beautiful life together (even though the money is gone, which is another story for another day).

I didn’t realize how hard I’d have to work for everything I have and how rewarding working hard would be until I experienced it. When I was first on my own, paying my own bills, and working my way through school, I thought this whole thing would just be temporary until my prince charming came and saved me. At 21, I wound up dating a very rich man who turned out to be an abusive rapist. That was a wakeup call for me.

I realized my parent’s beautiful love story had absolutely nothing to do with the money. It had nothing to do with being taken care of and it wasn’t about saving anyone or giving them lots of things. I had been looking at the whole thing the wrong way. It was about love. What made their relationship so special wasn’t all the bells and whistles, the crazy stories or the unbridled romance of it all.

It was the hurdles they overcame to be together because they couldn’t live without each other.

It was the hurdles they overcame to be together because they couldn’t live without each other. It was coming together because it was true, overwhelming, consuming, lifelong love. To this day, with the bank accounts empty and the lavish life gone, my parents are crazy in love. My dad brings my mom breakfast in bed every morning. They make out in front of me and siblings (which was gross when we were kids, but is kind of sweet now).

Now that I’m in a relationship with the person I plan to marry, I can see how my parent’s relationship and love story is still impacting me today. My partner isn’t extremely wealthy or powerful. He isn’t some grand person from some grand family. Nevertheless, he is perfect. He is heaven. He’s compassionate, loving, empathetic, and he adores me. He loves me the way my dad loves my mom. If he had to, he’d pay off some evil jerk to save me. I’d do the same for him.

In the end, my parents wild and adventurous love story had very little to do with the novelty of the tale and so much more with true love. Now that I’ve found it, I’m never looking back. Not for all the money in the world.

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The Miracle of Black Love: On the Greater Meaning of My Parents’ Enduring Marriage

Farah jasmine griffin considers james baldwin and beautifully doomed urban couples in literature.

In my family and community, my parents’ love story was legendary. Recounting elements of it, tellers of the tale—​aunts and uncles, cousins and neighbors, friends and casual observers—​all seemed to find warmth and contentment. At first, my parents were buoyed by their youth—​his brilliance and ambition, her fresh-faced beauty, creativity, and resourcefulness. Later, his addiction and ongoing attempts to rid himself of it halted their momentum, but not their devotion to each other.

Having met as children, Em and Mena were portrayed as a Black Romeo and Juliet, without the family feud. By some accounts she was 12, too young for boy company, and he was 13, when they first met over games of jacks and double-​dutch. She was the baby girl of a big brood that included two protective older sisters and a bevy of cousins, uncles, aunts, and grandparents, all of whom at one point or another shared living space. He was the young prince, the only child, of a striving young couple: the joy of his mother’s life and the object of his contractor stepfather’s resentment. He never knew his birth father, and did not know Alonzo Griffin was not his biological father until the day of his mother’s funeral, when he was 40 years old.

Mena and Em were new teen parents, aged 15 and 16, when they ran away to marry, but a judge refused to render the service without Mena’s parent’s signature. Their baby daughter, Myra, continued to live with his parents even after the young couple successfully eloped. Finding their names in a Philadelphia Inquirer list of Applications for Marriage Licenses is an invitation to imagine them on the cusp of the life they would build together. She is listed by her maiden name, Wilhelmena Carson, living in the Ellsworth Street home I most identify with my grandmother, and he still resides in his parents’ home, just around the corner from hers on Federal Street.

Following a brief stint in the Navy just after the end of World War II, and with the assistance of the GI Bill, Em purchased a house for his young bride from an Italian numbers runner, and earned an Associate’s Degree in Architectural Engineering from Temple University. Blueprints and T squares found their way into the South Philadelphia row house he renovated over and over, while dreaming of furthering his education and making his way as an architect. Mena recalls standing on the sidewalk with him, looking up into the windows of architectural firms that didn’t employ Blacks. The streets of Philadelphia were littered with many such places that practiced this unobtrusive form of discrimination. Yet, the couple’s dreams were refreshed by going to jazz clubs like Pep’s at Broad and South, or the basement of the Douglass Hotel, which housed the Showboat, near Broad and Lombard, where they heard the latest cutting-edge musical innovations of their peers. He befriended many of the musicians and she recalls him introducing her to a young Miles Davis (“shy”) and to Charlie Parker. They sat near the edge of the stage to watch and listen as Billie Holiday serenaded and mesmerized them.

Early mornings, before heading off to their jobs, they could be found swimming in the Wissahickon Creek, where they also filled jugs with fresh spring water. Mena found steady work in Philadelphia’s many garment factories; in the evenings and on weekends she made clothing and did alterations for local women. Like many other degreed Black men, Em worked for the Post Office. He drove a “Dynaflow” Buick; she acquired a taste for D’Orsay pumps. Occasionally they drove to New York to visit friends on Sugar Hill in Harlem or to attend boxing matches at Madison Square Garden. Rare photos of them from this period show them dressed up amid friends, laughing and enjoying what must have been a rich social life. As a curious girl I found old paper coasters and cocktail napkins embossed with “Mena & Em,” further evidence that they hosted parties I’d never witnessed, evidence of a mysterious and distanced life that preceded my entrance into their world.

Later, when my father became addicted, the plans for bigger homes and better jobs became ever more elusive. They settled into a life haunted by the anxiety of discovery by police, and worked as skilled laborers—​she in factories and he in a shipyard—​and gave birth to a second baby girl, whom they named Farah Jasmine.

My mother stayed on, through disappointment and setbacks. My father became a high-functioning addict, working every day and making various efforts to rid himself of his habit: methadone, group therapy, cold turkey. There were encounters with the police, and a year before my birth, he served a four-month-long stint in prison for possession of the “residue of heroin.” Throughout it all they leaned on the myth and reality of their romance. They were supported and sustained by loved ones, and they painstakingly mapped out a future for their youngest child. Guided by his vision and her ingenuity, I followed a path that generations of Civil Rights activists opened.

I first heard the love story from him. On the way to the library, as we passed familiar small businesses—​corner stores, Italian bakeries, hardware stores—​through the thoroughfare of Point Breeze Avenue, he relayed a fairy tale complete with a beautiful princess and her two sisters—​One Eye and Three Eye—​and a Prince Charming. Once we reached our destination, he scooped me in his arms and revealed that the sisters were “your aunts, Eartha and Eunice,” the Princess, my mother, and, of course, he was the rescuing, heroic Prince. (Many years later when I heard Mary Lou Williams’s “The Land of Oo-​Bla-​Dee,” I realized my father’s fairy tale was suspiciously similar.) Walking to my grandmother’s home, in whose care my mother left me while she worked, she told me stories of eloping, describing in detail the dress she made and wore: “It was black with red rose print; in the back at the bottom of the V, I sewed a big red bow.” Because of them, I never fantasized about being a princess bride, the center of attention at a big wedding. Eloping seemed so much more romantic. My aunts’ and neighbors’ versions of the story were recounted with soft, pleasant smiles. “Your daddy loved himself some Mena,” said Aunt Eunice. Aunt Eartha recalled, “He bought her a house and filled it with furniture.” And one of our neighbors, an older lady, told me, “I loved watching them holding hands when they came home in the evening.”

Everyone seemed invested in the couple, who at one point or another represented possibility, love, marriage, education, homeownership, and upward mobility. Later, they were an example of commitment and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. My childhood friends watched in a kind of admiring disbelief at my parents’ displays of affection. Their relationship was as passionate as it was affectionate, as playful as it was deadly serious. At his funeral, his life was framed by a version of their story, his final words reported as “Take me home to Muzzy.” (Even then, I knew these were not his final words, because I had heard them in the ambulance. When the police van sharply turned the corner and the stretcher slid back, he hit his head and said, “Oh Muzzy, my head!” But that was too painful to recall and relay. The fairy tale needed a better ending.)

That story, their story, so often told, so celebrated and mourned, was nonetheless full of its own silence. No one mentioned the addiction that slowed their ambitious trajectory. Though known within our small, tight family circle, it was a secret, our family secret. These were the days before naloxone and sympathetic portrayals of opioid addicts on television and in print. These were the days when the possession of the smallest amount of narcotics guaranteed prison, and neither mercy nor sympathy. These were days when the public face of the heroin addict was a Black man, often a musician, not a young white person. (Although I vaguely remember discovering an issue of Life magazine that my father had saved along with the Ebonys , Sepias , and other Black magazines, featuring a photo essay about a young white couple, both addicts.) There was no space in the public imagination for an intelligent, high-functioning addict, especially not a Black working-class one. So, we kept it a secret because so much was at stake: our beloved head of household, our well-being, our home. I was an inquisitive child who asked many questions, which my mother always answered, those answers followed by “Shush, you can ask me anything, but remember, we don’t talk about these things to other people. Don’t tell our family’s business. Your daddy loves you.”

As a child, I had no doubt of his love; I was fully aware that he cherished me. I knew that though he didn’t celebrate Christmas, the season would bring shopping sprees, new dolls, shoes, and musical instruments, all bought by my father and not “some fat, white man in a red suit.” I knew he worked hard to provide for us, going to work even on days when he didn’t feel well. I knew that he dealt with small racist encounters on an almost daily basis; he recounted them at night when he returned home.

And yet, even as a small girl, I instinctively felt more secure in the presence of my mother than my father. My child’s understanding of it was that though he would want to save me from an oncoming car or bus, my father’s reflexes might be too slow to jump into action. My mother, on the other hand, would snatch me from harm’s way in the blink of an eye, and if necessary, she would throw herself in front of the lethal vehicle. I trusted her judgment and her ability to handle anything that came our way.

Following my father’s death, their story took on greater meaning. It was told to me to remind me that I was the product of Love. That no matter what the world, white people, and later bourgeois Black people, might think or say, my parents loved and respected each other and I was a result of that. My well-being, my gifts, my successes were a result of their investment in and of love.

For years I sought their story in books. Less Zora Neale Hurston’s Teacake and Janie of Their Eyes Were Watching God , whom I would later discover, they were to my mind more like the young, beautifully doomed urban couples of James Baldwin’s novels: Elizabeth and Richard of Go Tell It on the Mountain , Tish and Fonny of If Beale Street Could Talk . Both bear witness to the miracle of Black love in this hateful and unjust place we call home. Both have artistic, intellectual male leads, too sensitive for the raw and brutal injustices they encounter on an almost daily basis. And, the women are young, fiercely devoted, finding a deep inner strength they didn’t know they possessed. (In “Sonny’s Blues,” Baldwin also writes about an addict with incredible sensitivity, and I love him for it.)

I read Baldwin as a teenager, about the same age that Mena and Em were when they had my sister. Go Tell It on the Mountain was my first James Baldwin. I read it the summer before I began attending The Baldwin School on scholarship. That summer of 1978 was my summer of James Baldwin. I recall reading Giovanni’s Room , If Beale Street Could Talk , and The Fire Next Time in quick succession. I read in the kitchen as my mother straightened my hair, I read in my bedroom, and on the bus, and when not reading I thought about the characters like they were friends or family. I eventually made my way to Giovanni’s Room Bookstore, on the corner of 12th and Pine, which I later found out was a gay bookstore. There, I was always greeted by kind and friendly white men, who welcomed me into their sunlit, book-filled space.

Fonny and Tish’s romance is a boy-girl love story that sits at the center of a larger family and community love story. It is about the ways Black people nurture and nourish each other in the midst of a society that shows them no love. There is hope in young love, particularly young love that will result in new life. There is the desire to make a way for them, a sense of possibility invested in them. This is the kind of investment I think my family and community made in my parents’ story. There was a softness that overcame them as they talked about how much Emerson loved Mena. The older women even laughed when they learned of their quarrels because they knew these were love spats, neither destructive nor mean-spirited. Their peers were both protective of and sustained by them. Their relationship had outlasted other teen romances. I sometimes wondered how a young couple came to bear so much.

In his fiction, Baldwin, unlike Richard Wright or Ralph Ellison, is attentive to Black women. And, because he is attentive to Black women, he is attentive to Black love, to the love Black people have for each other, to their capacity to love in spite of the hatreds directed toward them. Baldwin, a gay Black man, sees the beauty of Black women and Black people; he attends to their tenderness and their desire for each other. Wright seems unable to imagine this tenderness. Ellison, though clearly a lover of Black culture, does not display the same affection for Black women. Unlike Baldwin’s, Ellison’s women characters lack substance and depth. In contrast, Baldwin’s stories are often told from a woman’s perspective. Beale Street is narrated by Tish, in the first person. She is the voice of authority; her interpretation of events shapes the way the reader receives the story.

To claim love as a theme of Baldwin’s writing is almost cliché. Much has been written about his deep Christian sense of love as a requirement for and source of redemption for America. It is certainly an obsession of his, but religion isn’t where it starts for me. What initially struck me upon my first readings of Baldwin, what strikes me still, is the way he writes about romantic love between Black people, and the way that romantic love radiates out, or does not, into families and communities. At the core, romantic love in Baldwin’s writings can be the source of an ethics of community, of a radical spiritual survival, in a place set on destroying our souls. He does not romanticize Black life or the conditions under which Black people love each other. In fact, he explains them in harsh and unrelenting detail. These circumstances are what make love all the more profound, as miraculous as it is quotidian.

__________________________________

Excerpted from Read Until You Understand: The Profound Wisdom of Black Life and Literature . Used with the permission of the publisher, W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. Copyright © 2021 by Farah Jasmine Griffin.

Farah Jasmine Griffin

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The How-We-Met Love Stories Parents Want To Share With Their Kids

Every couple has a story. We’ve all burnished and buffed that moment we first met into the gem it deserves to be. Because without that moment there would be none of the wonder that came next – the love, the home, the children, the family.

Here on HuffPost Parents the other day, we asked you to share your stories as messages to your kids -- telling them of the sparks, slow burns and sizzles that led inexorably to their appearance on this earth. We asked because we all want them to know, but also because we all need to remember. It’s too easy for this foundational moment to get lost in the day to day.

We asked, and you answered. We were flooded with your love stories – far more of them than we can possibly publish. But for this Valentine’s Day, here are some we think you'll love to read. Keep sharing in the comments.

Wishing you love,

The Editors of HuffPost Parents

Daddy and I met in the fifth grade. We lived one street apart and rode our bikes home from school together. Until, one day, he told me he liked me, and I stopped talking to him. Over the years, we shared classes, passed in the halls at school, knew the same people, but we never spent time together outside of school and certainly never dated. After high school, we went to separate parts of the country and began building our futures. When it was time for our ten-year high school reunion, neither of us planned to go. Our best friends insisted and each played a role in making it happen. At the reunion, I saw Daddy across a crowded room and did not recognize him. I assumed he was there with one of my classmates -- a boyfriend, a husband, maybe. Then I saw his name tag, and could not believe my eyes. We were inseparable that weekend and a spark was ignited. Within one week we were making plans to visit each other. Within a few weeks we were planning our future. Ten weeks later, we were engaged. Ten months later, we were married. Now, nearly fifteen years later, we are more deeply in love than ever. Our love has created two beautiful daughters who give our lives new depth and meaning. Your Daddy shows me every single day that there is nothing more important to him than the two of you and me. He is "romantic" in the traditional sense, but what I love and appreciate most is the mundane, every day things. Like the way he can't wait to teach you something new when you ask a question. Or the way he makes you laugh just by being silly. The way he fills and empties the dishwasher, cooks dinner, picks up after himself, takes out the trash, and so many other things without question, complaint or request. The way he supports my career, my interests, my activities and me with all that he is. The way he still makes me feel physically beautiful despite the passage of time. I hope that you will each find love and friendship as amazing and wonderful as what Daddy and I have. It makes all the difference in the world.--Cheryl Johnson-Hartwell

Your daddy and I met all the way back in the fifth grade. He claims that he knew he loved me then but I’m a little skeptical. We “went out” as fifth graders do, holding hands at recess and sitting next to each other at assemblies. Daddy even gave me a necklace that he got from a gumball machine and I cherished that thing. Then one day, your fickle daddy decided he wanted to “go out” with another girl, so I threw the necklace over the school fence because I was so angry. We didn’t really talk much again until our senior year of high school when I decided to give him one more chance. We’ve been together ever since. Even though we went to college in different towns we visited each other often. We used to send each other letters, long letters that talked about love and plans. I loved your father’s letters, they made my week and I still reread them sometimes when I’m feeling sentimental. It was Daddy’s idea to get married, he encouraged us to get a dog when I was still nervous, and he was ready to make you guys before I was. And look how right he was! -- Amanda Harris

High School Honeys

Yesterday, I met your mom. Yesterday... a hundred years, they mark the same time. I was a junior in high school and trying out for my first play. I stood in a roomful of people I didn't know, save for one. Being the only kid who wasn't in drama class, I really was the odd man out. So, I did my reading in front of everyone then took my seat. All of a sudden, this raven-haired goddess waltzed into the room. She talked to the director and picked up her script and walked out. She got her part without even reading for it. I was agog. Then, I was terrified as I was cast as her husband in the play. I was so nervous around her that I was incapable of kissing her when the script called for it. I couldn't even make eye contact. Every time she was close my face tingled, my breathing went shallow and I got cottonmouth. I survived the play. But, I was done for. About a year later I finally got the courage and asked her out. We had our first date. From that night on, there's never been a woman I've ever loved more. Don't let anyone tell you 'young love' isn't real. This goes double for me or your mom.-- Scotty Schrier

Your father sat at the table next to mine the night my prom date left me at eight. Instead of watching my ex with his new girlfriend, I watched your dad. He was shy and quiet, and didn't have girlfriends. He played baseball. We danced. He was so tall and to this day, he has the greatest smile I've ever seen. I forgot to be sad. I invited him back to my parents' house with my friends but he got nervous and said no (which he later kicked himself for). The next day at school, and for many days after that, we wouldn't even look at each other. When we finally went on our first date, he brought me flowers. His car broke down, so I drove. We met a car full of retirees following a hot air balloon. We saw The Rock. This is all I remember. This, and his smile. Always. Your father's smile has the ability to light the room. You see it, too, I know you do. Later, we broke up, went to college, and the army, discovered the world and ourselves. When we reunited, years later, his smile is the thing that told me I was home.

We aren't a perfect, couple, because kids, there ain't no such thing. But we work hard to stay in love. We try to practice gratitude. We parent as a team. Don’t even think about trying to play us. We still make-out in the kitchen, sometimes in front of you, and we hope one day you think it’s disgusting. When we all “family hug”, we smile over your heads, and we both feel like we’re home.-- Kate Moretti

Young Adult Romance

Your daddy and I were two teenagers with stars in our eyes and BIG DREAMS. We wandered around thinking we understood the world and the world couldn’t possibly -- EVER -- understand us. We wanted to see Paris and never get old. Instead, we saw Detroit and got married. And at first, we felt we would miss out on the world’s great mysteries. And yet... having known your blue eyes, all of you, for so many years now; remembering your little bird mouths opening as I held you, each of you, for the first time in my arms; looking back at the high mountains of the mornings, when you crawled into my bed and fell back asleep, your nose touching mine -- I am contented. Even though Daddy and I can’t live together, anymore, even though everything has changed, nothing has changed, really. I love him for giving me you. -- Nicole Jankowski

Dear Girl and Boy, At a New Years Eve party many moons ago, I met a tall, skinny kid with a fake I.D. and an O.J. Simpson-esque Ford Bronco. I had too much champagne and told him that he was destined to be my future husband. Thankfully, that didn't scare him away because twelve years later, he is just that. As you know, he's also a wonderful and loving father. I loved your father before you were both born, but you have most certainly caused my love for him -- our love for each other -- to grow. And if you love me, your mother, you will help me convince Daddy that it's time to sell the Bronco. You'll also never acquire a fake I.D. Or drink champagne underage. Maybe I've said too much. Happy Valentine's Day. Love, Mama -- Susannah B. Lewis

I met your mother at my graduation from college. Now, it's best you read my account of the tale because hers is sure to be different. What you need to know is that true, we saw each other early that graduation day, and true, she did talk to me first. But, it was me, who, while sitting with my family eating a celebratory graduation lunch, looked over at her table and saw a beautiful brunette eating ribs. A beautiful brunette who ate ribs was my dream partner and later that night I inquired about the brunette who was eating ribs from the friend she was eating lunch with. Days later we were out on our first date and weeks later we celebrated our first kiss (for which there are vastly varied stories depending on which of us you talk to). Months later we were in love and years later we were married. It was a chance encounter, I think that part of the story both your mom and I would agree on. It was also a moment I'll never forget. I saw your mother from across that room all those years ago and while I can't say I saw your faces or our vacations or our house or the love all four of us have, I did know she was going to be in my life. That person you two have loved every minute of your lives became my special person from across a restaurant, eating ribs. -- Mike Reynolds

When your father and I met, I was 19, home from my first year of college. He was about to graduate high school. It was Friday, May 13, 2005. Yes, it was Friday the 13th, but it turned out to be one of the luckiest days of my life. I had no intention of getting into a relationship at that time. I’d recently come out of a relationship of a year and a half, and I planned on enjoying the single life. Kids, you can make plans all you want, but understand that life doesn’t always go according to plan. My friend Mike came to visit, and he had someone with him. I saw your father’s ratty t-shirt and messy hair, and I felt something. When I saw his smile, I knew he was going to be important to me. He called me that night, and we started talking regularly. He kissed me exactly a month after we met, and we’ve been together ever since. We’re the only couple I know of that wishes each other a Happy Friday the 13th.-- L.G. Keltner

Son, the story of how I met your father is a very mundane one, yet it defines our lives. On a crisp September evening in Toronto, a Biology major and a Computer Science major found themselves surrounded by hundreds of English majors in an elective class they had both been dreading. His eyes were kind. His voice was shaky. He talked me into skipping class and took me for Bubble Tea. I hated the tea, but I loved him. I did then, and I do now. We are worlds apart, and exactly the same. He is my sense of adventure and my strength. I am his voice of reason and the hand on his shoulder. We are stubborn and critical; always challenging each other, always pushing each other a little further and a little higher. We don't do fancy outings. There are no grand gestures. Just simple acts of love. I pick the tomatoes out of his salad, and he sips my Coke. He tells me I'm being a know-it-all, and I say so are you. We're so far from perfect. But, so perfect for one another. We thought we had everything, and then we met you. And, then, we knew we had it all. --Anjali Joshi

Finding Love Across Land And Sea When I first moved to Northern California, I spent many solitary afternoons at the seashore. I wasn't watching the ocean so much as I was surreptitiously observing the surfers gathered along the edges of the Pacific Coast Highway. They were a different breed from the surfers I'd seen in movies. Rough around the edges. Goosedown jackets, damp wool socks. Dripping wetsuits draped across sun-warmed truck hoods. Gazes fixed west. Inexplicably, I wanted to know more about their world, but I had no idea why. On a Saturday, when I was least expecting it, I met him. And he was one of them. He told me years later that he took one glance at me and decided I was much too young for him to pursue. Somehow I sensed this blockade, and I figured out a way to work my current age into the conversation ("29! I'm 29!"). I saw him light up. I also quickly confided to him that I had never, ever been swimming in the Pacific Ocean. He was dumbfounded and delighted. "Never been in the Pacific? How is that even possible?" And that was how our first date was settled: he didn't ask me out, he simply informed me he would be picking me up the following day. I couldn't have been more pleased; I'd never met anyone like him before. The next day he roared up to my house in his dusty Ford and we drove to the ocean. He had borrowed a wetsuit for me and I was completely mystified by the zipper: did it go in the front or the back? I wiggled, furtively, into the unfamiliar neoprene and did my best to pretend that I didn't feel tremendously self-conscious. He had his gear ready for abalone diving, and he said I could float with the bodyboard while he dove for our dinner in the kelp beds. I was determined to appear confident, adventurous, bold. He fell for it. "What was THAT?" I asked as a series of wide, slow waves passed beneath us. While he was contemplating the fact that I didn't know what a set wave was, I was wondering if my life was in legitimate danger. When we returned to the beach, he made a driftwood fire. He pulled out a cast-iron skillet from the bed of his truck, and seared the abalone in garlic, butter, lemon and wine. I'd never tasted food so rich. Before the sun had even set, I sensed I was experiencing a rare, precious day. I was in madly in love with him already, although I never would have admitted it to him or even to myself so soon. He was everything: strong, protective, funny, fearless, intelligent, confident, capable. Now, after more than a decade spent together, I can reflect on those early days. I know now that that peculiar yearning I felt was the gentle pull of my own future, calling me forward. I sensed his presence before we even met, I was pulled to him like the tide.-- Megan Aho Heronemus I met your mom in a club. She literally stood out, head and shoulders above the rest of the people there. I knew I had to talk to her so I gathered up my courage and made my way to her. She wasn't interested in me and tried to give me the business card brush off. I insisted that we talk. Being persistent paid off. I talked to her for hours until my friends wanted to leave. But she lived in California and I was in Illinois. I never gave up despite the distance. We picked up the conversation where we left off through e-mail and on the phone. I never ran out of things to say to your mom. Sometimes we would talk so long on the phone that she or I would fall asleep, not wanting to hang up. That's how I knew she was the one. I knew I would never want to miss a moment when I couldn't hear her voice or listen to her laughter. We are the same way with you kids in that conversation is important. That's how we show each other that we love, not only to talk, but to be able to really listen. --Chris Bernholdt Your mother and I were both raised in Brooklyn, but we would never have met each other there. Two million people lived between us. Instead, we met in college in a town outside of Boston. We began as friends. I used to ask her advice about other girls. And, then I began giving her rides home to New York. And when you genuinely enjoy someone sitting next to you for hours while trapped on the highway, as I did with your mother, you can see that person being next to you for years, for your lifetime even. So, we drove to the movies. And to dinners. And to parties. We took many long road trips. Sometimes we just drove around our college campus for no reason. I once blindfolded your mother and drove her to a dinner in Little Italy and then to a spot under the Brooklyn Bridge where I read her a poem I had written her. Now, as New York City dwellers, we are in a car so seldom that we feel entirely out of our element when we have to drive somewhere. We don't have nearly enough time to celebrate our love the way we once did, but I know that we both think about each other a lot. And, I know that somewhere on a highway between here and Boston, the spirits of our younger selves are riding side by side, smiling, debating, meeting one another, while your mother and I sit next to each other on the couch thinking of you both.-- Ariel Chesler

Opposites Attract

It was love at first sight when your mother and I met — if you can call her, the city girl that she was, mocking my suburban upbringing at a table full of our peers "love", anyway. We were interning at a large organization, and I walked it, suit and tie, with a baseball cap to the side, more swagger than sense. I dressed to impress, bringing my portfolio of drawings to show these guys how cool I was — and she deflated my ego like a porcupine rabidly chasing after a balloon full of hot air. We became good friends very quickly, but it wasn't until a fateful New Year's party where we'd even consider dating. But apparently it all worked out, because we got married and eventually, there you were! So remember, son — sometimes she's being mean to you for your own good! No. Wait. That's a horrible lesson....-- Casey Palmer

Mommy was a free-spirit, that means Mommy went where she wanted, when she wanted, she worked jobs that filled her heart more than her wallet, she lived on couches and had enough "stuff" to fill a small laundry basket and that was how she liked it. Daddy was a hard-working single father to your big brother and sister; he worked a job that made sure he had food in the fridge and doctors appointments for his young children. When Daddy met Mommy she was like a breath of fresh air, exciting and fun. When Mommy met Daddy she loved his passion for his children, his calm, gentle nature and his nicely tattooed bicep. We went on one looong date that resulted in marriage and the blessed birth of you. Mommy is happy to be brought back down to Earth by Daddy, and Daddy enjoys his occasional trips to the outer hemisphere.-- Liz Pearson

Sparks On The Job

It would be hard to imagine two people coexisting in closer proximity without being an item (do kids still use that term? how old am I, exactly?) than your mother and I did for nearly a year before we first held hands, first shared a Haagen-Daaz milkshake, and first confided in each other our wildest hopes and dreams over a gigantic slice of Lorenzo's Pizza on South Street. We worked banker's hours together every weekday with only 18 inches of desk space separated us until even that foot and a half wide imaginary wall crumbled at the bank's annual holiday party in 1998. There, your mother found me irresistible in that too tight olive green suit I'd had since I was a teenager. And who could blame her, I was pretty hot. Despite never hitting the dance floor as a pair that night, the twinkle in our eyes and shy conversations on our tongues made it obvious to everyone around us that something magical was about to happen. It took another couple of days before we'd make it official over a bowl of slippery noodles neither of us understood how to eat with chopsticks, and then a few more before we knew for certain that we'd never share a dessert or a slice of pizza or an Asian Fusion noddle bowl with anyone else ever again. Also, it is very possible that our relationship was centered too much around food. Hence all the trips to the gym your mother and I made while you were growing up. -- Jeff Bogle

Your dad and I met at work, my family’s business, when he was twenty-one and I was barely twenty. I was the receptionist for the summer, and he was just starting his career. We flirted all day for most of the summer, and I even came to know the sound of his steps as he came down the hall. This gave me just the right amount of time to glance at myself in the mirror before plastering on an eager “I’m pretending you’re NOT the reason I have this goofy smile on my face” look. One time I was so flustered by his mere presence, I ran into a door on my way out of the front office. He says it was then that he knew. At the end of the summer, two weeks before I went back to school out of state, I finally decided to ask him out. My plan was to casually scan the movie section of the newspaper as he visited me in the office and ask if he’d seen a particular movie. Before I could do that, I went to make some copies in another room. While there, in walked your dad. I was busy making sure my work was correct and he said, “I have two tickets to the baseball game on Saturday, do you want to go?” And it was set: my last first date.--Theresa Haider

Your mother was wearing a very large Santa Claus hat in a trendy bar. She was there for an animal fundraiser that some friends and I put on every month. It was near Christmas so the Santa hat wasn’t too out of place thankfully. She had the biggest, most genuine smile I had ever seen. I immediately approached her and said “Hi, I’m Trey”. We talked at the bar for hours. After our first date I knew that I loved her. We dated seriously for 8 months and then broke up for 5 years. In late winter of that 5th year she called me and asked if I wanted to get some tea. I knew then at that casual drink that we’d be married. It’s the other piece of the puzzle. The phrase ‘you complete me’ sounds so trite and like a line from a movie. But viewed as a puzzle, which life and relationships are, she completes me, and I complete her. -- Trey Burley

Your mom was the quiet one. I used to watch her from my perch behind the bar as I made margaritas and poured draft beers for the Sunday football crowd. She smiled, always. She had full, beautiful lips. I nearly collapsed at the knees once as I watched her pulling a scrunchie from her hair to readjust her pony tail. We had never spoken outside of our roles as bartender and server until by chance, I happened to be walking through the kitchen one day and I saw her talking on the phone. I heard her telling somebody how disappointed she was that whoever was on the other line couldn't make the Happy Gilmore movie they'd planned to see. I wanted to see the movie too, so I stopped and asked her if her boyfriend had stood her up. "I don't have a boyfriend," she said. "That was my friend cancelling our plans for later tonight." She was out of my league, no doubt, but I told her that I also wanted to see Happy Gilmore. She smiled a smile that I still remember today, 18 years later, as though it just happened, and we made arrangements to see the movie. It wasn't a date, in my mind, but your mom and I kissed that night. Your mom kissed me first, in spite of what she might tell you, and we were soon kissing each other as only new lovers do. I knew right away that those full, beautiful lips would be the last ones I'd ever kiss with such passion again, and they have been.-- Donald E.

Long before you were born, Mommy worked in a building with lots of other busy people. One day she had to collaborate on a project with a young guy who was new in the company. Mommy didn't like that because she was used to being the boss and not having to work with other -- newer -- people. But the person paying her said she had to so she went ahead half-heartedly. And guess what? It wasn't bad at all. This young man was sweet, smart and funny. So they worked together on this project for a few minutes and then talked and talked and talked about everything under the sun. He was the first person that understood all the goofy, silly, quirky thoughts that went through Mommy's head. He was the first person to understand the need of hers to laugh, play, daydream and live the moment. He thought just like her. So much so that although they knew it was unconventional, they agreed to marry on their first date later that "project day". Five months later they had a beautiful wedding party and celebrated their spontaneity with all their friends and family. Their heart of hearts told them that although it was spontaneous and irrational and crazy, they made the smartest, safest, surest decision of their whole life. -- Monica Dreger

Back when there were newspapers, boys, the people who made them worked in cramped, dusty, frenetic places called newsrooms. Desks piled high with files and old news releases. Ringing phones. Last week's grease-stained pizza box carelessly tossed on top of a file cabinet. That's where I saw your mother for the first time, boys. As she moved through the newsroom on her first day at the paper, my eye was drawn by the luminosity of her smile and her confident stride. I sat there, stunned, and watched her over the top of my computer screen. She turned that smile on me and that was it. I contrived a "chance" meeting at the elevators that very afternoon. Workplace romance? Not at first. We were friends, then more, then we found ourselves one moonless night on the beach near Tierra Verde, where in the pink shadow of the Don Cesar Hotel I asked her if she wanted to spend the rest of her life with me. We're a decade married now, boys, and it shouldn't be news to you that I cherish and appreciate everything your mother does and everything she is.-- Carter Gaddis

This here’s a tale for all the fellas” is how our story begins. Those words, the first line of Young MC’s “Bust a Move,” are the first words that I heard your mother say. It was karaoke night at the bar where I had just been hired, and your mom was a waitress. As those words hit my ears, I looked up at the stage and saw your mom singing. With people dancing and jumping all around me, I stood motionless. Not because of her rapping abilities, but because of her gorgeous smile. We were introduced that night and quickly became friends. That friendship turned into a romance and that romance turned into… It turned into a young woman standing by her boyfriend’s bed every day as he struggled with life after having a stroke. As my health returned, I knew one thing, that there was no way I wanted to go through this life without her by my side. Ten months later that woman with the gorgeous smile stood across from me one rainy Saturday as we pledged our love and a lifelong commitment to one another, and we’ve been busting a move together ever since.-- Jason Greene

Online Sparks

Hey buddy. You've heard some wedding talk lately, so I thought I'd tell you a little more about how your Papa and I met. It was 16 years ago, and your dear old Daddy was dating someone else, but he wasn't very happy. This person sent out an email to all his friends announcing a new email address. He failed to do something called "BCC," so everyone saw everyone's email address and everyone emailed everyone else to say hello, share photos, etc. This was many, many years before Facebook . It was an ancient form of communication called "AOL." One of the people who sent a photo was Papa. I saw it and thought he looked very handsome, so I said hello through an email. And then over the phone. And then I said goodbye to this other guy, and said hello to your Papa in person. I fell in love with him that very first time we met, and have never stopped loving him since. I can't wait until April when you get to see us finally get married. Why did we wait 16 years to get married? Partly because it wasn't legal for Daddies and Papas to marry until just a little while ago. And partly because we wanted to wait for you.-- Brent Almond

I met your dad on the internet. I know that don't sound very romantic, but that's just the start. We spoke for months before we met. He lived in New York City and I was from a small town in southern New Jersey. On New Year’s Eve he came and picked me up. Those big brown eyes had me in an instant. We knew right then and there that this was love. I moved in the next day. From the first time we saw each other, we have been together and never left each other's side. That was the craziest decision I ever made, however it was one of the best!-- Danielle Crespo

Kids, when people ask me how I met Mama, the short and sweet answer is usually “she was a fan of mine.” At the time I was making a web-comic parody of the reality TV show Survivor, called “Survivor: The Comic Series.” She was a fan both the show and of my comic – such a fan that she signed up for my e-mail newsletter. But I didn’t actually use the mailing list anymore, so for some reason (and I did this for no one else before, or after) I felt like I should send this new subscriber a message thanking her but letting her know I didn’t do that anymore. I must have been extremely charming, because that e-mail led to more corresponding; the more we e-mailed the more we recognized one another as kindred spirits and we became fast friends. Then one day she dropped a bombshell, saying that she had something that she needed to tell me, but was afraid that it would scare me away. Her dark secret? She collected knives and swords and other various bladed weapons! My response surprised her: “You’re kidding! Me too!” And so here we are, happily married for 8 years now, and parents to two of the most adorable little boys anyone has ever seen. And no, son, you can’t play with our swords. -- Chris Routly

Best Friends, Forever

On a warm summer evening, at a Renaissance Faire, I got a little wistful because there were couples all around, dancing together and in love, but I had nobody. Then I accidentally backed into somebody. He reached around to steady me, and we swayed back to back... and then the power went out. So, as a group (his friends and mine), we went to his camping area and spent a few hours chatting. We ran into each other again the following week, and we haven't been apart very much since. We married three years later, and will celebrate our 9th anniversary next week. I could still spend hours talking about anything and everything with him... you, the weather, politics, art, movies. And we still often notice the same things... a funny shaped cloud, an oddly worded sign, a beautiful sunset. He is my rock, my best friend, my favorite traveling companion, and my support through good times and bad, including those years when we didn't think we'd be able to have a baby. And since you came into our world three years ago, it's only gotten better. -- Chandra Donahoe

Your Mama and I meet a long time ago. We were friends first for a long time. I did not know this but your Mama liked your Mommy right away. When I decided to move away to another state your Mama was upset and told me so. But we were still friends. When I returned to Colorado your Mama and I decided to hang out. Your Mama has always been funny and very creative and she can paint awesome pictures. Your Mommy really liked that about her. Your Mama is also kind, loving, sweet, thoughtful and the best friend I have ever had. Your Mama knew I wanted to have kids so we went to the doctors and they helped us find the perfect person to help us. Then the magic happened and you were brought into our lives. We love you David more than anything! I think you have brought me and your Mama closer together as a family. That is the best love story to me. --Ambrey Nichols

Daddy and I met twenty years ago. Back then, I thought I needed someone who met all of the items on my "checklist" and your Dad met none of those items. We were friends, but I was too silly to give in to the idea of being more. One very hot and humid day, after having told your Dad the night before that I needed a couch for my apartment, he showed up at my door. A neighbor of his was throwing away their couch and he not only asked for it for me, but also carried it, by himself (a full couch), and strapped it to his car, by himself, and drove it to me and carried it, by himself, up two flights of stairs to my apartment. When he got to my door, he was proud, but also trepidatious as if he had gone too far and a bit embarrassed as he was sweaty and sticky, and worried I'd hate it (because, frankly, that couch was being thrown away for a reason). Luckily for me, it was the first time that I actually was smart enough to look into his eyes and see something that my immature checklist -- and I as the creator of such a checklist -- had failed to realize. And it was of the utmost importance to me, and that is a deep kindness. I fell in love with him in that moment on a porch of an apartment building in Virginia and have never looked back. -- Nicole Fitzpatrick

Your father and I met when he was a last minute substitute on a blind date I didn't know I was having. My friend Diane had dragged me to the movies where she had planned, along with our mutual friend Todd, to introduce me to Todd's friend Eric. But Eric didn't show and Todd grabbed your father as a replacement. I had a cold and really didn't want to be there. Also, my nose was red from sneezing and I was wearing my very ugly down jacket and a comical pair of red fluffy earmuffs. Your dad was post-call, meaning he had been up for 36 hours straight. We both fell asleep in the plodding French film, which should have been my first hint that we were meant to be. Then we all went out to dinner where Eric actually joined us -- but it was your father who got all my jokes. Dad called the next day -- to beat Eric to the punch, he says -- and when he hung up a long time later he remembers thinking "wow, I can talk to this girl for hours." What he didn't yet realize is that I could talk to ANYONE for hours. But your father is the one I want to talk to forever.-- Lisa Belkin

Your father and I don't remember how we met. It's been 18 years, and we still struggle with this. We know it was during our first semester of college but the where/when of it all is lost to time. To be honest this used to bother me - I mean who doesn't remember how they met? But now I realize that's ok - because here's why. Movies and books will convince you that you need that lightening bolt for love to strike. In reality though, lightning bolts can hurt, be destructive and may not be what you need to build a lifetime of love. Instead, we became friends. Then one day Daddy asked Mommy out, she misunderstood it to be a romantic date (Daddy swears it was just meant to be as friends but he didn't make that clear), Mommy took some initiative and kissed Daddy, and Daddy's reaction was, "Well I guess then we're going to go on a date". And then we had our first fight (something along the lines of "Well couldn't you have made that clearer before I kissed you?" and "Well it was hard to when you were kissing me."). Needless to say it got sorted out. My point: we may not remember how we met, but we remember how we got together, and that's even better. -- Sarah Albertini-Bond

Expect The Unexpected

I met your mom renting a car. I needed one. She rented them. Because I wanted a car with a CD player in it, she had to drive me to another rental location. We got to talking. We make each other laugh. She drops me, puts me in my car and home I go. The next morning, I get a voice mail. "This is Lara. I rented you a car. A man called, saying he left an envelope in the passenger's side visor. Could you check?' I do. I check the whole car, including the trunk. No envelope. So, I call her office and leave a message with her manager. "I looked for the envelope. There wasn't one. Can you also tell Lara that I thought she was cute and funny and nice and if she wanted to ask me on a date, she didn't need to come up with a lame ass reason to call me." "You want me to say that?" the manager asks. "I want you to say that exactly." This leads to trading of voice mails and an hour long conversation on my way home that started with her saying, "It was another car." The next day, I call her and ask her on a date. We've been together ever since. And while I was doubtful about the existence of the envelope for a long time, now that we're together almost ten years and three of you in, I really don't care if it was real or not. Because fate works how fate works and I believe that meeting her is proof that it's real.-- Alan Kercinik

The first time I saw your mother in person we were visiting a museum. We saw each other and I poop you not, I was stunned. Stunned by her glow. Stunned by her smile. Stunned by the fact that she was even prettier in person. Stunned by the fact that something inside of me changed instantaneously when I saw her, and I had no idea what it was. Needless to say, our first introduction was somewhat awkward. I was sort of aloof by way of awkward and she was just smiley. Damn her and her smile. It just makes you do stupid stuff. A week later, I told her I loved her.-- Charlie Capen

And last but not least...

Neighborhood, grammar school, she stood out, I liked being around her. High school, she's a freshman I'm a junior, still attracted to her. First date, a Sunday afternoon movie (father said no to a night movie), both families cautious but caring. Korean War, going to get drafted so I enlist for four years and she said I'll wait. Separation was difficult, wrote every day I could and received her letters when ever we had Mail Call, not too often in a war zone. Came home from tour with a year and a half left, got engaged and prior to my discharge got married in a beautiful ceremony. First baby two years later, two more followed. After sixty-one years of marriage with an outstanding, wonderful, happy family. We're still in love. Comfortably retired enjoying what God provided for us.-- Harry Kolb

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — About Myself — The Story Of My Life

The Story of My Life

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Published: Aug 1, 2024

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Childhood: the foundation, adolescence: navigating identity, college years: pursuing passions, reflection: the story continues.

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"I Knew Something Had To Change": 13 Adults Are Recalling The Horrible Reasons Why They Had To Stop Talking To Their Parents For Good

"Recognizing these early signs can save years of heartache."

BuzzFeed Staff

Note: The below article discusses emotional abuse.

Having a secure relationship with a parent can be life-changing for a child; however, sometimes, the relationship can change over time for a myriad of reasons. So when Reddit user u/youngGod928 asked : "Adult children who are estranged from their parents, what were the early signs that your relationship was deteriorating?" a lot of people provided their vulnerable stories. Here's what they had to say:

1. "i had a notebook counting down the days until i was 18. i started it at about 13. i can’t pinpoint the exact moment, but i knew from a very young age i wanted to go far away and never look back. i moved out at 16 and haven’t looked back in 17 years. wow, i didn’t realize until typing this that i’ve lived longer outside of that toxicity than in it. what a relief.".

— u/_SomeWittyName_

"Are you me?! I also moved out at 16. The final nail in the coffin for me was when I got into a car accident that totaled my friend's car (he was driving). No one was hurt, but I had school the next day and was stranded in a very dangerous part of the city. My mom told me that she wasn’t going to come get me because my brother had made her pick him up too many times in the past, and I needed to figure it out for myself. Like, what?"

— u/jitterbug_balloons

2. "Realizing the distance between us wasn't just physical but emotional, too. They'd call every once in a while, and I dreaded it. The phone rings, and my heart sinks. It was never about catching up; it was always about some complaint or another way I had let them down. One day, it hit me — every call left me feeling drained and guilty for not being the 'perfect' child they wanted. I started screening calls, texts went unanswered, and visits became annual formalities. The peace in choosing my mental well-being over trying to meet their impossible expectations was the turning point. You can't choose your family, but you can choose not to let their chaos become your norm."

— u/LilyPhoenixx1

3. "The day I decided to attend a military academy for university, the rules there were less strict than those of my parents. They could only contact me by mail and could not hold their money over my head. I was free — and still am."

— u/G0es2eleven

4. "I invited a dear friend to a family vacation, and my stepdad blew up/escalated to the point where she was shaking with anxiety and fear because she hadn’t seen a man behave that way. As we were leaving, there were neighbors standing on their porch, nodding at us, saying, 'Esta bien?' And I knew something had to change. It wasn’t going to be my parents, so it had to be me. I had to stop showing up to take it. I had to stop putting myself and certainly anyone I love in their destructive path."

— u/AffectionateTitle

5. "When they don’t see you as an adult, and they still see you as the controllable child. You’re an adult doing adult things in every other sphere of your life. The lack of respect and caring for you as an adult wears on you. If they have a personality disorder, you have to tiptoe around, which accelerates this process. Three major turning points were:"

1. Constant belittling of my kids. None of us were good enough—critical comparisons to others. My kids' accomplishments were mocked. But if another of their grandkids did the same thing, the heavens opened, and light showed down on them with praise from heaven.

For example, two of my kids had national merit scholarships to a top 10 school for their degree. Got them invited to the Governor’s mansion for a luncheon with the other 20 in the state. My niece gets the National Honor Society, and they send presents to her. They ignored my kids. All were Duke TIP scholars, and 10 years later, a nephew earned that. He’s praised. There’s something about them doing it to you, but once they do it to your kids, you can't let them. We had already limited contact. Now, both of those adult kids are doing well. They have chosen not to have relationships with that set of grandparents.

2. Pitting my siblings against one another. Either praising one or devaluing one to me. I shut it down, but they continued with the others. I’ve become the evil one in their story.

3. How they speak about me when I’m not there. I’ve heard from their friends some pretty awful things they’ve said. It started when I was very little. As a teen, though, they told people I was on drugs, sleeping around, etc. I suspect they did it for sympathy, 'I have it so hard with Fritos.' I get married and move away. Run into a family friend four years later and hear how it’s so great 'you turned your life around.' What? That’s when I heard what I supposedly was doing. I wasn’t using drugs. I wasn’t sleeping around back then. The last time I spoke with that parent, and they were accusing me of some morally reprehensible behaviors, I told them that if that’s what they believed of me, they should want nothing to do with me.

I’ve been low contact for 20 years — and now no contact for five. It’s a very painful decision to choose this. It’s seen as one day, I just turned off the switch to them, where in reality, it was 20-plus years of begging them to be more mature and be an adult in our relationship. If they had made changes, we’d not be estranged. The decision was not made lightly. I no longer have migraines, and my health has improved significantly."

— u/LetsBeginwithFritos

6. "Reflecting on every forced apology after conflicts where I wasn't wrong but had to bear the blame, I realize the pattern of one-sided accountability was a red flag. The absence of mutual respect and apologies made me feel perpetually undervalued and dismissed — a dynamic that only grew more apparent over time. It taught me to value genuine communication and emotional honesty in relationships, something I didn't experience growing up. It takes courage to break the cycle, but recognizing these early signs can save years of heartache. Now, I'm focused on building a foundation of trust and respect with my own family, something I learned the hard way was missing in my upbringing."

— u/RoseRowan1

7. "When he told me his new wife didn't like me, and he did not want to get divorced again, so we wouldn't be seeing each other much anymore. I was 14 — and his only child. We spoke maybe a dozen times for the next 30 years. He divorced again. Outlived his next wife. He died alone. I took care of his affairs, his only child, and all that. I felt nothing. I still don't, four years later. I have three sons. They all talk to me, even the grown ones. We get together once a month for dinner and games. It's always a great time."

— u/DangleofDoom

8. "When I was growing up, I was the youngest of four children; my family never really seemed to make any effort for me. But I was always gaslit into thinking it was because my requests and needs were frivolous. I was pretty independent, so I was left to use my own devices. My older siblings constantly needed support and help. The moment I moved out for college, I tried to call and keep in touch, and it felt like I was doing all the work. I only lived two hours away, but they came to visit twice in four years, yet they expected us to show up for every holiday and kids' birthday party for my nieces/nephews."

"Six years later, I realized all of the effort was coming from me. So, I stopped trying to extend the olive branch. My family never once reached out; they didn't want to go to my graduation, and they didn't want to come to my wedding. They didn't care even a little bit. I wasn't wild; I was the black sheep that always had been. 

A few years of therapy and self-reflection made me realize that I was neglected significantly as a child, and I developed hyperindependence because my needs weren't ever met. I was regularly food insecure; I was educationally neglected, I was isolated socially, I was told I had no life prospects, and I thought too much of myself. My childhood was abusive, and my family never really loved me. They just wanted to own me. 

We don't talk anymore; I do talk to my nieces and nephews because I want them to have social support and not get trapped in the small town they live in. I started a secret college fund for my nieces and nephews because I want them to have an escape should they desire it. I had to fight so hard to succeed in life despite everyone telling me I was worthless."

— u/Bearacolypse

9. "In my 40s. My dad died three years ago. Before his death, he was the only reason I was in the same room with my mother. 10 years ago, she drove over to my house one night, and she tried to call me to repentance for leaving culty Mormonism. When I got divorced from my ex-wife, her first words were, 'How could you do this to me?' I didn’t speak to her at all for almost two years. After my dad died, I tried to be the best son again. I called her often, etc. but her not allowing me to give the eulogy as the eldest child in the family and having my younger Mormon brother do it hurt a ton. My dad was my best friend ."

— u/TheFinalVin

10. "The lack of interest and care from my mum. When I was quite young, 11 or younger, she would always spend time with me, take an interest in my hobbies, take me to after-school activities, and play Xbox with me. As she became neglectful and abusive, the opposite became true. She never talked to me about my hobbies or no shared activities whatsoever. I remember one or two times ONLY from my teenage years, and that was being taught to make stir fry and watching a few episodes of The Walking Dead one night. She also never had a nice word to say about my school or social life, just criticism, disappointment, and disinterest after a while."

"This came to a head when I was jumped on my way to school and beaten to the floor and 'saved' by a woman I didn't even know. When I got to school, and my mum came to collect me, I was told it was 'my fault,' and she was more interested in punishing me for having access to a computer that I shouldn't have as I was grounded. Not a kind word, a hug, or making me food to feel better. Just a silent car ride home."

— u/proudgoose

11. "I always knew my mom was a bit of a pathological liar. She liked having her stories, especially when it meant entertaining people. Then I found out she was lying to me about what she was doing with my son when she was watching him. Going to the park meant watching cartoons all day. Ate some pasta and apple sauce meant having ice cream and cookies. She even gave him caffeinated soda at the age of two. I found out from my aunt, who lives with her, what was actually going on. When I confronted her, she was like, 'This is what grandmas do.' For the record, we didn't ask her to watch him. We had other sources of childcare. She would ask to spend time with her grandson but then get easily frustrated when he would fuss. I would tell her to call me if it got too much, and I would pick him up, but she wouldn't. Even though she wasn't doing any serious harm, I can't let anyone have alone time with my kid if they're dishonest with me."

— u/Pale-Preference-8551

12. "When I hit high school and started getting half-baked opinions on the state of the world, I would bring them home and share them with my parents. My undiagnosed autistic ass was in the habit of telling them what I’d learned at school. My dad was suddenly very impatient with me and would make me argue with him on these points when I’d only heard them that day. I was just a kid, and he was a barrister, and he’d grill me for ages, making me fight him toe to toe like I was grown and educated and bar-admitted. I was scared to tell him anything after a few rounds of that. My parents took that as secrecy, and they began searching my bag and my room."

"I haven’t had a diary since, and I’m 40. All my notebooks of fiction were hauled by me to the shredders and paid out of my allowance in case they read too far into that. They found cigarettes from time to time, which I used to cope with being bullied (I decided to smoke with my bullies to make them like me. It worked, but I only managed to quit last year). And they would ground me for weeks at a time when it was the only 'bad' thing I did. 

Dad’s harassment continued. My mother ignored it and focused on my brother. I speak to them. They’re coming to my second wedding next month. But we’re not close. When they get too intrusive, they get firm blowback. Neither of them is welcome in my home."

— u/RadioSupply

13. "I got my first night shift job while I still lived with them, and part of that is a new sleep schedule. Plain and simple. I just wasn't at their beck and call like they'd been accustomed to. They slowly started pushing me away. I lost count of how many times there would be a fun family outing being planned. I would ask when they were planning to leave so I could plan my sleep accordingly, but I would get told, 'Oh, we don't know' and wake up to either an empty house or them coming back saying they 'didn't know when I'd be awake so we just went.' By the time I left, they'd cut me out to the point I was literally just a combination tenant/lawn mower to them."

If you're estranged from your parents, and you feel comfortable doing so, tell us why and what happened in the comments below.

Note: Responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.

The  National Alliance on Mental Illness  helpline is 1-888-950-6264 (NAMI) and provides information and referral services;  GoodTherapy.org  is an association of mental health professionals from more than 25 countries who support efforts to reduce harm in therapy.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger as a result of domestic violence, call 911. For anonymous, confidential help, you can call the 24/7  National Domestic Violence Hotline  at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or chat with an advocate via the website.

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The bride loved her mom’s mother-of-the-bride dress. The internet did not

Beverly Norberg tried on 30 mother-of-the-bride dresses before she found “the one.”

“My husband and son were with me in New York, and their faces lit up when they saw me,” Norberg, 55, tells TODAY.com . 

Bride Sydney Marie Slavens, 28, had the same reaction when her mom FaceTimed from the fitting room of Manhattan's Flora on Madison. Not only did Norberg look beautiful, but the blue taffeta ball gown featuring a drop-waist and embroidered flowers, checked all of Slavens’s boxes.

“I’m all about texture,” Slavens, a wedding photographer in Orlando, Florida, tells TODAY.com, noting that she wanted Norberg to stand out. She also liked that Norberg would be her something blue without being too obvious. And Slavens knew Norberg's look would photograph well next to her Ines Di Santo silk dress

But of course, the internet had thoughts. After Slavens shared footage from her nuptials on social media, Norberg was accused of trying to upstage her daughter on her special day.

“People got cruel to the point where I stopped looking,” Norberg says.

“I deleted one of the videos because it got to be too much,” Slavens adds. 

Reactions included:

• “Was confused at first? 2 brides? I think mom’s gown is a wedding dress. Why though?”
• “It’s gorgeous. But too much. The bride should have the only wow dress. Mom looks like she’s getting married or going to prom.”
• "If my mom wore that I’d be scared she’d outshine me!"
• "i thought the mom was the bride and u guys were doing a guests wear white type thing. u guys are so pretty tho."
• "She looks gorgeous, you look gorgeous. Period.
• "It is very clearly blue!! And it’s STUNNING."
• “It looks like a bed sheet.”
• “She looks like the bride.”
• “No. Too hard to tell who the bride is.”
• “I thought that Mom was the bride and the daughter was a bridesmaid. The mother’s dress definitely looked more like a formal wedding gown.”

“There’s this old-fashioned notion that the mother-of-the-bride needs to look matronly with longer sleeves and covered shoulders, and the whole industry centers around that," Norberg shares. 

Norberg says that’s why it took her so long to find her Nadia Manjarrez ball gown. 

"I'd be out shopping and call Sydney and she'd be like, 'No. Boring,'" Norberg recalls. "She wanted me to make a statement."

Mission accomplished.

Rachel Paula Abrahamson is a lifestyle reporter who writes for the parenting, health and shop verticals. Her bylines have appeared in The New York Times, Good Housekeeping, Redbook, and elsewhere. Rachel lives in the Boston area with her husband and their two daughters. Follow her on Instagram .

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The Price of Perky Boobs

“Look at my boobs and tell me what you think.”

I’m a 20-year-old retail assistant, beseeching an older colleague and close friend, to evaluate my bare breasts in the backroom after hours. Unbuckling my bra, I stand before her, totally exposed. “What are you talking about?” She responds. “They’re fine!” After years of self-critiquing, I wasn’t convinced.

While the perceived ‘perfect’ size of breasts have fluctuated with time, breasts have always been beholden to one immovable standard: perky. Those with breasts that align with this archetype may consider their boobs a source of #freethenipple empowerment. Other women feel a kind of wearied distaste for their tatas; forgoing a bra is inconceivable, and god forbid they go on top. Some have embraced a kind of ‘it-is-what-it-is’ booby ambivalence.

I spent several college summers fitting bras at a contemporary lingerie chain—measuring breasts, buckling brassieres and at times, literally lifting flesh into cups—so I have met all these women. I have been them, too. When the pandemic found me in my mid-20s – prompting a massive lifestyle shift and a discovery of disordered eating. I’d moved to the west coast and, without daily walking around New York City, took up running and downloaded Noom, a calorie counter app that promptly capped my daily intake at 1200 calories. (Editor’s note: Research has shown that calorie tracking, including with apps, may contribute to eating disorders.) Within three months, my breasts descended four bra sizes, taking my nipples with them. With that, my boobs entered their new, deflated era, and for the first time, I felt incentivized to confront the issue.

I was not the only one to recently research breast lifts —the number of people searching for them peaked during summer 2021, and has continued to spike each summer since, according to Google Trends. It’s coincided with the arrival of Ozempic , forcing women—and myself—into the same societally-constructed conundrum. Weight loss? We like it. Small, saggy breasts caused by weight loss? Unacceptable. From 2019 to 2023, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons says there was a 30 percent increase in requests for breast lifts (mastopexies)—placing the procedure in direct competition with its more popular sister: implants. “I want my titties pinned back to my shoulders, right where they used to be,” Rihanna revealed in last month’s issue of Interview . “I don’t want implants. I just want a lift.”

New York-based board-certified plastic surgeon Norman Rowe has made his name on the Upper East Side and beyond as a breast expert. In the past year, his requests for lifts have almost tripled—an exponential increase that he says is a result of rampant semaglutide use."

“I get a lot of women who've lost a substantial amount of weight, especially with Ozempic ,” he says. “The more weight someone loses—and the quicker they lose it—the more impact that has on the skin. Body procedures are just going through the roof, 30 percent of our business is now dedicated to face, breast and back lifts.”

When I first consulted with Dr. Rowe for a breast lift , he sketched the anchor-like incision required. He would cut around the areola, down the center of the breast, removing excess skin and raising the nipple so it no longer faces down. This would not create cleavage or add fullness. For that, he emphasized, you need an implant.

“A lift will take care of the sag in the skin, it will take care of the position of the nipple, but it will not address the volume loss of the upper poles of cleavage,” he says. (“Upper poles” is how plastic surgeons refer to the breast tissue above the nipple.) Patients often come in without realizing the limitation of a breast lift, says Dr. Rowe. “There is a misconception among patients of what a lift is. So I figured out the way to ask if they wanted an augmentation or a lift was, ‘Do you want cleavage ?’ Either you want to get bigger and your cleavage to change, or you want to be the same size but get rid of the droopiness.”

I fit into the latter group, or so I thought. Anyone who remembers the 90s will also remember that buxom beauties were not only abundant but considered femininity made manifest. Even if you joined in on the bimbo jokes that shamed the cosmetically enhanced likes of Pamela Anderson and Carmen Electra, their perfectly rounded, perky breasts were still taped to the bedroom walls of your school crush. Anything less than a squeeze-worthy palmful, anything that succumbed to gravity, would be passed over by Playboy editors—relegated instead to the readership of National Geographic.

In the weeks leading up to my surgery, I would debate the pros and cons of implants over and over again. Like Dr. Rowe, I was struggling to understand my expectations. Due to their generally higher placement, my nipples would be raised only an inch. With the removal of skin, my 34D boobs would likely decrease by a half or a whole cup size. Was it worth going through all of this, just for slightly smaller tits with slightly higher nipples? Would I be satisfied with, well, a slight difference?

This was also plaguing Dr. Rowe, who responded to my initial consultation with multiple surgical plans. “One of the key things that I try to ascertain when I'm examining a patient: what are their true expectations and, more importantly, are they realistic for the patient?”

When Dr. Rowe first opened his private practice in 2004, he was routinely implanting 500 and 600cc implants—for reference, one cup size is around 250cc. With larger implants dropping faster, creating sagging, he says women have trended smaller in the last five years. Fat transfer enhancements, popular among those seeking natural-looking breasts, can calcify into hard lumps and be mistaken for cancer during mammography—resulting in additional surgery. The complications and shelf lives associated with implants have also become more well-known : follow-up implant removal or replacement surgeries after 10 years or sooner, and ruptured implants need to be replaced in up to 17.7% percent of patients after 6 or 10 years (the rupture rate after revision augmentation is between 2.9% and 14.7%). Breast implant illness is a controversial topic—it’s a term patients came up with, rather than a medical diagnosis; there’s a lack of data on the topic; and no real agreement about what the symptoms are, though patients tend to name hard-to-track ones, like fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, rash, memory loss—but the FDA and many doctors agree there’s still much to learn, Grant Stevens, the president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and a clinical professor of plastic surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, previously told to Allure .

Still, the promise of built-in cleavage was tempting. I wanted to go braless without insecurity. Wear plunging dresses without experimenting with endless sticky cutlets. I didn’t want to tug up my breasts in tight tops. At the same time, I didn’t want to go bigger, and I didn’t want to possibly undergo multiple surgeries on my breasts as I aged. My heart just wasn’t in the implants.

“Whereas I used to do a lot of breast implant mastopexies—where you put in the implants at the same time—today, I'm probably doing a larger number of mastopexies [breast lifts] alone,” he says.

Post-consultation, the options Dr. Rowe offered me were a mastopexy with a small implant or a mastopexy with an internal bra. The internal bra is a lesser-known procedure that originated in the ‘80s, reaching wider awareness more recently, Rowe says, with the help of a rebrand and big marketing push . Originally, the internal bra was a kind of cone shape (picture Madonna) created from a Gore-tex mesh. Over time, there were claims the mesh may have been obscuring mammography, and insurance companies began rejecting claims for mammograms if the patient had an internal bra. That’s where Galaflex came in. A new internal bra material first implemented around 2016, it’s best described as an absorbable mesh sewn into the chest wall.

“Think of it as a hammock,” says Dr. Rowe. “It goes underneath the implant [around existing breast tissue] and keeps it from descending over time. You don't need a full cone because you’re not pulling anything up—but you are protecting the implant from moving down after two years. You have your own sling.”

A lot of breast surgeries rely on skin to hold up an implant or (in the case of a lift-only) breast tissue, Dr. Rowe explained to me, but skin is not capable of bearing weight. Someone who has skin that has been stretched from rapid weight loss is a perfect candidate for an internal bra because that stretching of the skin weakens the layer of collagen that’s usually a built-in structure to prevent descent. But after Galaflex dissolves, in about 1-2 years, “it gets replaced by collagen — which would not have been there otherwise,” says Dr. Rowe, an assessment validated by studies published in the journals Aesthetic Surgery ( in 2022 and 2016) and Plastic and Aesthetic Research . “While the internal bra itself is gone, its impact remains.”

This was enough to convince me to get an internal bra, which starts at $10,000 at Dr. Rowe's practice, making the cost of a breast lift with an internal bra $40,000 and up. While I was assured the results of an internal bra are not permanent—Dr. Rowe said I could expect them to last for at least 10 years—it does make it less likely for the breasts to droop over time. And an internal bra is less likely to interfere with breastfeeding—something that may or may not be in my future—than an implant.

My surgery took around an hour and a half. I was in the clinic by 7:30am, put under general anesthesia, and awake around 11:30am. During the procedure, Dr. Rowe removed excess skin and sewed the gauze to my ribcage, reshaping the remaining skin and tissue to lift my breasts and nipples while reducing the size of my areolas. I was back to my hotel room in a surgical bra by noon. Recovery requires you to wear a surgical bra, day and night, for at least a month — eventually downgrading to a sports bra until around six weeks. A surgical bra is a wireless bralette that closes at the front (so you don’t have to stretch your arms back), and feels very lightweight but also extremely tight. The compression helps with the swelling but also keeps the breasts in their proper place as they heal. I was unable to sleep on my side for around 10 days, and there’s no lifting more than 10 pounds, or working out other than walking, for three weeks. Following that, scar tape or gel on the sutured areas (around the areola, down and under the breast) is an everyday essential for a year.

This dress was impossible for me to wear without a bra before, now they sit perfectly without any support.

The first several days require heavy reliance on another person. For the first 48 hours, my boyfriend lifted and lowered me into bed, dressed me, and brushed my hair and teeth because I couldn’t raise my arms. I was encouraged to walk the next day, and allowed to fly or drive if necessary on the second (I’d traveled to New York City for the surgery, and had booked my flight back home two days later). I had full mobility again by day three or four, but the discomfort should also not be underestimated—specifically with the internal bra. I felt a constant pang and tugging pain on my ribcage that affected even the most basic activities (like lifting groceries or shaving my legs) for the first several weeks.

For the first 24 hours, I was in so much pain that I cried all the way through my post-op appointment the next morning. In the first 24 hours, I was taking a low-dose prescription opiate by itself, which wasn’t enough pain medication, so Dr. Rowe recommended I take it in conjunction with Extra Strength Tylenol. (He compared Tylenol to the main meal, while Oxycodone and Tramadol were a kind of ‘chaser’—supplementing the OTC medication should I need something stronger.) Through my tears, I revealed my new, bruised breasts to Dr. Rowe. Upon inspecting his work, the surgeon concluded he was “very happy” with the results.

“You're trying to make their soul better,” he explains of cosmetic surgery. “While I'm not taking out their appendix, when a patient sees themselves as having a flaw–rightfully so or not–you're trying to correct it. And sometimes to them, it's life and death. Honestly, down deep, I'm a fixer. Seeing a problem and getting a solution, a good solution, it's gratifying.”

I didn’t look at my breasts for the first week—a mostly unconscious choice. For as long as I remember, I have avoided looking at my breasts entirely. Even before my weight loss changed their appearance significantly I always felt unsatisfied with them on a bad day, or ambivalent at best. Eight days after surgery, I unzipped my surgical bra and inspected the result for the first time. Dr. Rowe had reduced the size of my areolas, raised the nipples, and rounded my breasts into two symmetrical mounds. The anchor-shaped incision was sutured with almost invisible stitches. I was looking at boobs I had only seen on screen, or on my most genetically-blessed friends.

I turn away from the mirror. The change might seem slight to some, but to me, mastopexy had made a world of difference. “Tell me what you think,” I say to my boyfriend. “They’re perfect,” he responds. This time, I believed the beholder.

To read more about plastic surgery:

• Breast Lifts Are on the Way Up
• 13 People Get Real About Their Facelifts
• I’m 96 and I’ve Had 3 Facelifts — Here’s What I Learned

Now watch Brooke Shields' 10 Minute Beauty Routine:

Allure Daily Beauty Blast

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Weekly Horoscope: August 5 to 11, 2024

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01 /13 what's in store for you this week.

Welcome to this week's horoscope, where the celestial alignments offer insight into the lives of the zodiac signs. From career and love to finances and health, these forecasts provide a glimpse into what the week holds for you. Discover how the cosmic energies might influence your decisions, emotions, and interactions, guiding you through the paths of your sun sign. So, let's break down these predictions given by astrologer Vishal Bhardwaj, Founder of Predictions for Success, without further delay.

02 /13 Aries

Try not to get carried away with your impulses. Choose your words carefully before speaking and be aware of your surroundings. If you feel the urge to dive in headfirst, take a moment to breathe and assess the situation. This little pause can help you avoid potential pitfalls. Career- This week may involve time-consuming responsibilities. Professionals may feel more valued for their expertise. Businessmen will get specific opportunities for expansion in their field, as well as chances of growth and promotion. Love- Singles will get to socialise a lot and meet interesting people. Last days of the week are an auspicious time to tie the knot if you have found your potential better half or good proposal. Those who are married should communicate openly and honestly and try to bridge the gaps. Money- Expenses on home and vehicle renovation might crop up. Good week to acquire immovable property. New investments in land or property. Good phase for heritage property matters. Health- There's a tendency to feel pressured about personal matters, potentially increasing stress levels. It's essential to channel this energy into constructive plans while prioritizing your health.

03 /13 Taurus

Taurus, your enthusiasm is certainly heightened, but try to balance it with a more grounded perspective in order to make wise decisions. Stay mindful and try to slow down if you feel like you are about to make an impulsive decision. Career- Entrepreneurs and businessmen will get new opportunities by implementing changes and expansion in their operations. Take time to do things that you enjoy and that make you feel good about yourself. Love- Lucky singles will get to tie the knot in the last quarter of the year. Those who are married, your mutual understanding will increase and you will find harmony in the second quarter. Keep your anger in control for peace in love life. Money- Dear Taurus natives, this week will prove to be a good period for investments in speculation and share market after midweek. Profit from heritage property, real estate & land investments will be beneficial. Health- This week's health horoscope emphasizes overall well-being with a focus on the head, mind, hair, and skin. Take advantage of this favorable time for mental clarity and introspection, aiding in health-related decision- making.

04 /13 Gemini

Your confidence is inspiring, but this week it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and end up feeling drained or frustrated. Try to ground yourself before you commit to a big project. Pause and consider whether it's manageable for you. Career- In your professional life, you may get new opportunities or promotions, and you may get time to enhance the growth of your business by implementing new rules and regulations. Love- Singles are expected to encounter their soulmates this year. In the beginning, you will relish your single life with numerous social delights. Married individuals will witness a surge in affection towards their partners, keep the flame of love lit with best efforts. Money- Foreign projects may yield best offers, leading to increased income. Promotion or, if considering a job change, you're likely to secure a new position with desired salary. Health- Your feet, toes, and lymphatic system need more care during this week. Foot health, such as proper footwear and foot hygiene, is essential for overall well-being. Take time to inspect your toes for any signs of discomfort or injury.

05 /13 Cancer

Your planetary positions this week are such that it can inflate your confidence and lead you to take on too much at once, which can be detrimental to your overall well-being in the long run. Check in with yourself regularly to make sure you're not overextending yourself. Career- During this period your financial situation is likely to remain stable. Additionally, you may get an unexpected source of income, which may increase your financial security. The chances of new opportunities or promotions are high. Love- Singles may encounter challenges in their romantic pursuits after the midweek, possibly facing difficulty in finding a compatible partner. However, those who are married can look forward to a fulfilling and harmonious relationship this week. Money- Expenses on religious pursuits, occult sciences and travel. Avoid extravagance to manage your finances prudently. Long-term investments in shares will be helpful in future. Property and land investments are favourable. Health: Engage in mild exercise to strengthen your lymphatic system, and pay attention to any swelling or soreness in your feet as these could be signs of problems with lymphatic flow or circulation. You are encouraged to prioritize relaxing self-care routines this week.

This week could give you a strong urge to expand your horizons and get involved in all kinds of activities and social engagements. Aim for balance by setting realistic goals and giving yourself the time and space to achieve them without rushing. Career- This week, the planetary positions will remain greatly favourable for Leo natives. This will bring promotions, salary increases, and success for you in new ventures. You will also consider short-term investment plans to secure your finances. Love- Singles may experience feelings of loneliness and confusion in the beginning; still there are possibilities of finding a life partner, just keep your eyes open. For long term couples, this is the year to take the talks forward. Money- There will be financial support from parents; profit from past investment. Unexpected income from a historically significant site. Financial help from friends can be foreseen for this week for you. Freelance or part-time work can boost your income. Health: The legs and ankle region will be affected this week. Any pain or swelling in the legs and ankles should be taken seriously since it may be a sign of fluid retention or circulatory problems.

07 /13 Virgo

Your confidence may make it difficult for you to know when enough is enough. Take care of yourself by tempering your enthusiasm with a little caution. A more practical and measured approach will ensure that the ventures you embark on are both exciting and manageable. Career- In your professional life, you may expect a promotion or raise at work. You are also likely to be successful in new ventures, in which you may experience steady income and increased savings. Love- Singles will find someone suitable in the second half of the year and will enjoy the newfound love. Married ones should address any issues amicably to maintain a harmonious relationship especially from 9th October to the end of December 2024. Money: Financial matters experience ups and downs. Higher travel costs are probably to come. Keep your investments in the stock and land markets low. There could be returns on previous land investments. Health: Leg stretches and walking can help enhance circulation and lower the chance of vein varicose veins or cramping. Maintain adequate hydration to promote a healthy blood supply to all parts of the body. Periodically raising your legs can also help to relieve pressure and improve circulation.

08 /13 Libra

To ensure steady and comfortable progress, it is acceptable to take things one step at a time. To determine your boundaries, stay grounded and take stock of who you are. This will spare you from needless risk-taking and allow you to enjoy the ride. Career: Businesspeople and professionals' earnings and skill sets are expected to remain unchanged this week, with an average performance. But all of these bad emotions will go by the end of the week. Love: Single people in relationships might feel pressured to tie the knot, but it is best to hold off. By midweek, your relationship will be even stronger and more developed. Make sure you and your partner feel close to each other by improving communication. Money: High standing in the profession; financial growth; abrupt shift in circumstances; international joint ventures. Talk openly about your future career goals, but stay away from long-term commitments. Health: During this week, you may experience sensitivity in your knees, joints, teeth, and skin. It is critical to take note of your joint health, particularly if you feel any stiffness or discomfort. Do mild exercises to strengthen and increase the flexibility of your knees and other joints.

09 /13 Scorpio

This week, you may feel like anything is possible, leading you to push all boundaries and explore new financial opportunities as they arise. However, it's also important to recognize when you're reaching your limits. Read the fine print of all contracts to avoid unnecessary risks. Career- For entrepreneurs and business owners, this week presents a great opportunity to focus on reinvigorating your business. Throughout this period you may experience both positives and challenges. However, financial stability is expected to prevail during this period. Love: Single people may feel overburdened by their job and family obligations, but things should get better in the end. Prioritize spending time with your partner and think about cutting back on your work commitments. Money: Dear Scorpio, choices will be made more carefully and clearly as a result of the share market. Prepare yourself for a more favorable financial position and an exciting future. Health: Regular dental care is necessary to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Make sure you give your skincare routines top priority in order to maintain healthy, radiant skin, and be aware of any changes in the way your skin looks or feels.

10 /13 Sagittarius

This week may be difficult for you to see potential obstacles in your love life, so stay grounded by being realistic about what you both can achieve. This way you can enjoy your relationships to the fullest without setting yourself up for disappointment. Career- There may be some instability in your finances as some unexpected expenses may arise in your life. There are going to be ups and downs in your professional life and you might get relocated. Love- Single individuals may not feel prepared for commitment and could be apprehensive about losing their single status. Those in relationships or marriage are likely to feel content and fulfilled with each other. Those who are looking for a better half, this week is for you. Money- This week, individuals should focus on financial planning and budgeting. It's advisable to review your expenses, cut down on unnecessary costs, and prioritize saving money. Avoid taking financial risks and seek expert guidance when needed. Health- The hips, thighs, nerves, and arteries are very sensitive during this week. If there is any discomfort or tension in the hips and thighs, you need stretching or strengthening exercises. Adequate blood flow is essential for artery health, so prioritize activities that promote blood circulation.

11 /13 Capricorn

Try taking a deep breath and settling for a slower pace. To preserve your energy, be aware of your limitations and pace yourself. You can maximize this passionate energy without becoming exhausted or losing sight of what is essential if you take a balanced approach. Career- The planetary placements may bring some uncertainities and worries due to some unexpected changes in my career, relationships, and life in general. You may also complete important projects or achieve important Achievements. Love- At the beginning of the week, singles will have favorable opportunities and enjoy an active social life. Those who are married will experience a strong and harmonious relationship with their partner as long as willing efforts are given towards the same. Money- You will pay back debts & be free from financial burdens. Individuals may face financial uncertainties during this week. It's important to exercise caution and avoid impulsive spending. Health- Nerve health is crucial for overall well-being, so practice stress-relief techniques like meditation or deep breathing to support nerve function. Be mindful of any signs of nerve-related issues such as tingling or numbness and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

12 /13 Aquarius

You might have a strong urge to explore new places and push the boundaries of what you typically do. Before taking on new endeavors, take some time to think things through and make sure your actions are in line with your long-term objectives. Career: My dear Aquarius, things will get better financially this week. An advisor will be able to assist you in locating new revenue streams. In the long run, this will result in benefits and recognition. Love: Hey Aquarius, sweethearts, romance is in the air. Those who are single might find a worthy companion to move forward with. Making thoughtful word choices is crucial for married people to maintain harmony and love in their relationships. Money: By making investments in the speculative market, you can profit. Enrolling in a wellness program can be beneficial psychologically, but it may have a negative financial impact. This is the time when you might feel like making a major purchase. Health: The bladder, anus, nose, and appendix are highlighted in this week's horoscope. In order to avoid urinary tract infections, it is critical to maintain optimal bladder health by drinking enough of water and using the right toilet habits.

13 /13 Pisces

Refrain from taking hasty decisions that could risk your sense of stability. Maintaining realism and groundedness is crucial. In this manner, you can take advantage of the positive momentum of today without having to take any unnecessary risks. Career- You may see positive changes in your career, like moving to a new place or taking on new responsibilities. Some big plans may also be completed. If you are in business, there will be a lot of scope for growth, and you will focus on new ideas and long-term plans. Love- Single natives in love will be unsure of their relationships throughout the week. Stay alert and keep your eyes & ears open. Married ones should be cautious in the second half, there might be misunderstandings, conflict and big issues. Money- You can grow financially if you take others' advice & implement it in a creative way. Investing in foreign markets will be profitable. Focus on maintaining stability and seek expert advice before making any major financial decisions. Health- Paying attention to any discomfort or changes in bowel movements can indicate issues with the anus or digestive system. Be mindful of nasal congestion or allergies, and take steps to alleviate symptoms such as using a humidifier or saline nasal spray.

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My wife isn't 'just' a stepmom to my son. He sees her as his other mom.

• My wife has been in my son's life since he was 6 years old.
• She has taken on a parental role, stepping in whenever I need extra help.
• Even though she's his stepmom, my son considers her his other mom.

After Vice President Kamala Harris announced she was running for president, one criticism lobbed against her was that she is not a parent because she has never given birth to children. But she is the stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff's two children.

Like Harris, my wife is a stepmother to my son.

I am no longer in a relationship with his father and have been in a new relationship for four years. My wife came into my son's life when he was 6 years old and quickly stepped into a parental role. It was a role she enthusiastically took on.

Although she didn't give birth to my son, my wife is absolutely his second mother.

My son and wife's relationship started friendly

My wife didn't immediately take an authoritative role or force him to treat her like a parent. At first, she was more like a grown-up friend — someone he knew he needed to respect, but someone who would take him on drives to get ice cream or let him pretend to drive her car while I was inside the grocery store.

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I was worried about parenting with another person all the time. As the primary parent, I wasn't used to dividing parenting duties . My wife was aware of that and always deferred to me as the primary parent.

But the bond between my son and my wife was instant. He had never met someone I was dating before, but he liked her immediately.

My wife has taken on more responsibility as a stepmom

Over the last four years, she's taken on more parental responsibility but never tried to act like she was more of a parent than myself or my son's father. She is a bonus mom, someone there to kiss him goodnight , help him with his homework, and love him unconditionally.

During the pandemic, my wife volunteered to take the lead in helping my son with virtual school so I could focus on work. She created a schedule for him, made him lunch, and ensured he kept up with assignments. When the playgrounds opened, she would take him to play, armed with a backpack full of whatever was needed.

I have gone on several overnight trips , leaving the two of them alone together. My son doesn't even call or text me when I'm gone because he's having so much fun hanging out with my wife. I never have to worry about him; I know my wife will make sure he takes a bath and goes to bed on time.

There are days when I will ask her to tag in and do the bedtime routine because I'm working or want a break, and she does it without question. My son knows that if he needs something, he doesn't have to come to me all the time.

Seeing my wife willingly step into a parental role with my son has strengthened our relationship. I knew I loved her almost immediately after we met, but seeing how my son responded to her made me more secure in my decision.

Sometimes, she still refers to him as mine, and I always remind her that she's his mom, too. We do everything as a team: school meetings, performances, birthday parties . Everyone knows us as his two moms, and there's no one else I could imagine doing this with.

My son now sees my wife as the missing piece to our family puzzle. He proudly claims her as his other mom.

"You're my mom too," my son will say when my wife calls herself his stepmom. He made that decision. My wife never wanted to force a close relationship on him, but he pushed for it.

Media has warped the perception of stepmoms

Popular media depictions of stepmoms are largely negative. The common trope is that they're evil.

For example, you have characters like Meredith Blake in the Lindsay Lohan version of "The Parent Trap," the Baroness von Schraeder in " The Sound of Music ," and, of course, the prototype: Cinderella's Evil Stepmother.

These women are always seen as temptresses who come in and seduce the father into marrying them before revealing they intend to get rid of his daughter so that she will be the only woman in his life.

Maybe there are stepmoms out there who fit this description, but by and large, stepmoms are there to be whoever their step kids want them to be.

I know that's exactly the role my wife plays, and my son and I are all the more lucky for it.

Watch: Why one mother fled Texas to keep her child safe

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