Claire, shall I expect you on Sunday? I asked my daughter.
Of course, she replied.
I was looking forward to having my children over and began getting everything ready for their visit. I wanted to treat them to something special. I tidied the house from top to bottom and made myself presentable. I set the table, laid out all the food, and simply waited for my guests to arrive. But when the agreed hour came, no one showed up. Worry started to nibble at the back of my mindperhaps something had happened to them.
You see, I had been planning to give the children a significant sum of money. I knew how much they longed for a new car, and I wanted to help. So, I took up my phone and dialled Claires number. She answered, her voice groggy.
Mum, I completely forgot we were meant to come round.
So, youre telling me I spent two days preparing for you for nothing? And its my birthday today, no less.
Mum, well definitely come by tomorrow. Weve just had so much on that I lost track. Im sorry.
I put the phone down, feeling gutted. I binned everything I had made for them, packed my things, took the money Id meant for the kids, and headed off on a spontaneous holiday to Brighton. It turned out to be the best decision I could have made.
One day, while strolling through the park, a gentleman approached me and invited me for coffee. His name was Philip, a retired judge. Conversation with him was a breezehe seemed to know a wealth of amusing stories, and I shared pieces of my own life in return.
We eventually fell for each other. Before my holiday ended, Philip asked me to move in with him.
Ive got a flat and a pension. We can spend time together, go to the cinema, and take it easy.
I hesitated. I had children, and grandchildren after all.
What about them?
Theyve got their own lives to lead, Philip said warmly. They can visit us when they like.
For some reason, my daughters actions sprang to mind, and I decided to say yes.
A week later, I returned home. I found a note taped to my front door asking for help finding a missing woman.
Theyre looking for you, arent they? Philip chuckled.
That must be my daughter, I replied.
She didnt know youd gone on holiday?
No, she had no idea.
Right on cue, Claire appeared on the stairs.
Mum, where have you been? Ive been searching everywhere for you!
I went on holiday, love. I do have my own life, you know. And this is Philip. Were going to live together.
I dont understand.
Dont worry, theres nothing wrong with me. Wouldnt you like to see me happy?
Yes, of course I would.
Good. Now, come inIve brought back a few souvenirs for you from my trip.
Would you ever dare make such a decisive change in your life? This experience taught me that sometimes, choosing your own happiness isnt selfishits necessary.
