Mother’s Sacrifice

Manuel’s father had passed away a long time ago and now he was living with his mother. Life used to be calm for this family, but now it became quite difficult. His father’s savings had to be used and now are no resources left.

Manuel, even though, seeing the situation, kept having the same life: he studied, played and had a lot of fun.

He was used to having everything he wanted at all times, and started to complaint about everything: food, his used clothes and shoes. He was demanding and unhappy with what he had. His mother only had left her pension, and didn’t know what to do in order to please her son.

She would then ask her neighbors since she didn’t have enough money to buy good items for her son. She would get funds lent to buy him fruit, a piece of meat, some potatoes or sweets.

When Manuel at the table and ate everything on his plate, his mother would feel happy for all her efforts. He would then ask:

— Are you not going to eat, mom?

She would then make up an excuse:

— No, I am not hungry, son.

Sometimes she said she had already eaten  or   would  eat   later.  One  day  Manuel arrived home and found his mother very sick in bed. He called a doctor who told him:

— Your mother is very weak. She probably hasn’t been eating for many days. She needs to eat more in order to recover completely.

Manuel was very surprised with what the doctor said and didn’t know what to say back to him. He then asked his mother:

— Have you been eating, mom?

She didn’t say anything; a lonely tear come down her squalid face. Manuel then realized what happened. He was now aware of how much sacrifice his mother was doing for him. He never realized this before! He then kneeled on the floor and cried next to his mom:

— Forgive me, mom. I never realized our real financial situation and your great generosity. I never felt anything was missing at home! How did you manage to buy everything you offered me?

One of her neighbors, who came to the house and overheard the conversation, said:

— Your mom borrowed money so nothing would miss for you, Manuel.

— Oh God! How could I be so blind? Mon, I will get a job. I am old enough to be able to work. I know I will not get much money, but that can help us. God will help us mom, and we will be very happy together.

His mother smiled and said:

— God has already helped me son, and I consider myself really happy for him giving me a son like you!

                                                        Aunt Celia

Translation:
Carolina Von Scharten
carolinavonscharten@yahoo.com