Lately, I’ve started to feel that my daughter and son-in-law are beginning to see me as an old woman. I’m not complaining — it just gives me a strange feeling.
Two days ago, I turned 46 and decided to celebrate the day with friends at a cozy restaurant. The evening was wonderful, and afterward, I hosted a dinner at my home for my daughter and son-in-law.
When they arrived, my son-in-law handed me a beautiful bouquet of roses, and my daughter gave me an envelope. I took it with a smile, but immediately felt that there would be something unusual inside. I opened the envelope, was shocked, and now I don’t even feel like talking to my daughter.
Inside the envelope was a gift — an offer for ten days at thermal spa resorts, with a full service package: massages, hot springs, and a special diet.
My daughter said excitedly:
— Mom, look what we brought you!
I tried to hide my surprise:
— You know I don’t like gifts like money. They’re a bit boring.
— Mom, it’s not money! You’ll definitely like it.
I opened the envelope and read the offer. Massages, hot springs — everything seemed fine, but… I couldn’t imagine myself in places like that. Those are for older people!
— Thank you, but thermal spas… those are more for older people, right? — I couldn’t hide my dissatisfaction.
My son-in-law replied, surprised:
— But these aren’t ordinary resorts! There are mountains, fresh air, beautiful nature. We found a place with comfortable rooms and all kinds of activities!
— Activities for retirees? — I couldn’t hold back. — You know I don’t like places where I have to spend time with people who are much older than me!
— But you want to rest and relax! It’s a unique experience! — my daughter tried to explain.
I tried to make myself clear:
— I do want to rest, but not like this! Why not choose something where I can feel truly alive?
My son-in-law, noticing the tension, stepped in:
— We just wanted you to relax a little. We thought you’d like it.
— Yes, maybe it’s suitable for people over seventy, but not for me! I don’t want to spend time with people who are much older than me, doing treatments.
I was disappointed, and at that moment I felt the entire mood collapse. When they left without apologizing, I was left alone holding that stupid envelope.
I still can’t believe my daughter sees me this way.
