Sarah will always remember her 18th birthday because it was the day she revealed a surprise to her stepmother that she hoped would drastically alter her life. It was also the day she officially entered adulthood. Have you ever had the impression that life is one big, unscripted play in which every moment has the power to either shatter or strengthen you? That has been a piece of my life. While navigating the rocky seas of loss and fresh starts, I found myself in charge of a choice that might turn out to be the most poignant storyline twist or the most brilliant episode ever.
This is the tale of how, for the most unexpected reason, my grownup entry became unforgettable. My name is Sarah. Life seemed to be an unending storm after my mother died when I was just eleven years old. Lost in his own sea of sadness, my dad eventually remarried after finding a new woman to be a ray of hope. That was how I met my stepmother, who would go on to become much more than just a fresh face around the house. She developed into a really reliable person for me, always there to give me love and support when I needed it.
Although my stepmother never attempted to replace my mother, she brought a light I believed was lost to our family forever. She would reassure me, “I am here for you, always,” her words a comforting salve for my hurting heart.
However, life has one more surprise in store. The silence in our house after my dad passed away was unbearable. The memory of us sitting in the poorly lighted living room with a palpable sense of anxiety and uncertainty fills me. Her voice was hardly audible above a whisper as she stated, “I can not comprehend how hard this is for you.” But I want you to know that you have my support. Whatever happens, we are family.”
Her words saved me from a deep sea of hopelessness. I muttered, fighting back tears, “But everyone’s saying you will leave… go back to your family.” “Am I going to an orphanage? Will I?” “No, sweetheart. Neither I nor you are going anywhere. She murmured, “Look at me,” as she felt my hand in the shadows. Then she cupped my face and gave my forehead a gentle kiss. “With each other, we will overcome this.” She was correct, too. She stayed in spite of the rumors and sidelong looks from others, demonstrating that the ties within the families we select are just as strong as those I was born into. Anticipation was high on my 18th birthday morning, not only for the customary festivities but also for a surprise I had been working on for years.
Warm and soothing, my stepmom’s grin welcomed me, the same smile that had lifted my spirits many a time since the day she entered our life. “Happy birthday, my love,” she said as she gave me a tiny, perfectly wrapped box.