My children and grandchildren hadn’t visited me in months, claiming they were too busy. Last weekend, I decided to go there myself. My son opened the door, and I screamed in horror when I saw my daughter-in-law in a filthy old t-shirt, clutching their fussy 6-month-old as their 2-year-old tugged on her leg.

She offered me a faint smile. “It’s not a good time, mom.” Instead of leaving, I walked inside and replied, “Nonsense. You two go rest, and I’ll take care of everything here.” I spent the entire afternoon cooking, cleaning, and taking care of my grandchildren.

As I left, my son responded, “Mom, we were never too busy for you. We just did not want to burden you.” I kissed his forehead, and my daughter-in-law embraced me warmly.