They were both taken aback, trying to argue their cases, but I held firm. “Your mother left me everything I need. I’m staying right here, for now. You have your lives, and I have mine. Let’s respect each other’s choices.”
For the first time since Helen’s passing, I felt a sense of purpose. The second house and the $480,000 were more than just financial assets. They were symbols of Helen’s love and wisdom, her belief in my ability to find my way, even if it meant breaking away from the paths others had laid out for me.
As I exited her study, I felt her presence. Helen had given me the tools to move forward, to honor her memory by living on my terms. And with that knowledge, I knew I was ready to start anew.