Sherry,

That makes sense. Unspoken hopes/expectations often collapse into resentment. Don’t be hard on yourself, understanding our needs and learning to be skillful in love can be tough! And you caught the real rub right away! Namaste!

In not getting the gifts you planned on receiving, you overlooked the gifts you got… which were so much better than some flowers or a trinket. Your stepdaughter gave those to you. My goodness, how beautiful. You must love her well, and it reaches her heart… what grace, dear mother, thank you for tending the children in such a warm way.

With warmth,
Matt