It was her mother’s birthday, and Alice cherished these family gatherings. This time, however, her grandfather Ted wasn’t invited. When Alice asked why, her mother, Lisa, snapped at her, a reaction that surprised Alice. She sensed her grandfather needed help and felt determined to offer it.
As her parents celebrated, Alice sat quietly, her mind drifting to Grandpa Ted, who had always made her feel special. It had been over a year since she’d last seen him, and she remembered the last argument between her mother and Ted, filled with anger and accusations. After that night, he had vanished from their lives.
Unable to hold back her questions any longer, Alice asked, “Why isn’t Grandpa Ted here?” The room fell silent, and Lisa replied coldly that he had made bad decisions and they didn’t need to see him anymore. Alice’s heart sank. “But I miss him. Can’t we visit him?”
Tension filled the air as Lisa dismissed the topic, but Alice felt tears welling up. She couldn’t understand her mother’s anger and left the table, her heart heavy.
In her room, Alice replayed the conversation. She knew Ted was sick and needed help. Overhearing her father discuss Ted’s need for money for medication made Alice realize her mother’s anger might stem from a refusal to help him.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Determined to assist her grandfather, Alice looked at her piggy bank. It contained her savings for a new bicycle, but the thought of Ted suffering made the bike seem unimportant.
With resolve, Alice broke open her piggy bank, counting the coins and bills before placing them in her backpack. She slipped out of her window and made her way to the bus stop, ready to help Ted despite her parents’ likely objections.
When Alice arrived at Ted’s house, nostalgia flooded her. She knocked gently, and he opened the door, surprised to see her.
“I came to help you, Grandpa,” she whispered, presenting her life savings. Ted’s eyes filled with tears as he gently took her hands. “This is the kindest thing anyone has done for me,” he said, though he admitted the money wouldn’t cure him.
Alice, concerned, asked why her mother was angry with him. Ted sighed and explained that he had let Lisa down by using the money she gave him for alcohol. He expressed his regret, hoping for her forgiveness one day.
Just then, Alice’s parents arrived, and Lisa was furious. “Alice, what were you thinking?”
But Alice stood her ground. “I gave Grandpa all my money. Can’t we help him?”
Seeing her daughter’s determination softened Lisa’s heart. “If you stay sober, I’ll help you with the medication,” she told Ted.
Tears filled Ted’s eyes as he nodded. Alice smiled through her tears, realizing she had helped bring her family back together. It was not just about money; it was about love, forgiveness, and hope for a fresh start.
