Her words were a stark reminder that I had only focused on my own inconvenience, not the cause of his behavior. The story of “poor parenting” I had assumed was true was actually the story of a family struggling with serious, difficult circumstances. Hearing it from Araceli helped me see the situation with more compassion.
Small Acts of Kindness and a New Beginning
A month later, I received another note. This one was longer and neatly written: “Hi, it’s Matteo. I started the soccer class you told us about. It’s really fun. I’m not messing with your house anymore. Thank you for the books. The one with the dragon made me want to read more. My sister said you’re nice. I think she’s right. Sorry again. From, Matteo.” I carefully taped this thoughtful letter to the inside of my pantry door.
The true turning point, however, came three months later. There was a knock on my door—a proper, polite knock, not a prank. It was Renata. She looked much healthier and more composed. She held a container in her hands.
“Hi,” she said awkwardly. “I made arroz con leche. Araceli said you like cinnamon.”
“I do,” I replied, slightly stunned.
She handed me the container and offered a genuine apology: “Thank you. For being patient. And for not giving up on my kids, even when I did.”Continue reading…
