Behind Her Back

Hi Gabe,

I just recently found out what happened between you and my mom and I just wanted to apologize for what happened. Though I don't know the full story, I understand that my mom expressed her insecurities due to the influence of a third party. And so I can understand why this may be hurting you so much.

Just from observation, my mom has always struggled with having strong beliefs and even standing up for them. When I argue with my mom, it's usually easy for me to win because she usually gives in. I think with enough reasoning, it's easy for my mom to change her view points. And it saddens me to find out that her friend won this round.

I don't know who her friend is, but I don't believe she had the right to say what she said. I don't think it was her place. And I think it was a mistake for my mom to listen. Through your actions, it's evident that you've done so much for her. That you were committed to her and that you truly cared about her. Heck, more than half of the things in our house was fixed because of you.

I don't know what will happen in the future, but until we find out, I want to thank you for everything you've done. As you already know, my mom was a widow for about 7 years until she met that one guy who couldn't stay with her in the end - due to his own financial issues. Though she's very prideful and good at holding things in, I was able to see how happy she became when you came into her life. Many times she'd mention you and the things you've done - even if we didn't ask, which was usually the case.

She may not admit it right now, but I know she feels in her heart that she made a grave mistake. Ever since you left our house my mom has constantly checked her e-mail. I know she's dying to hear what you have to say to her.

But back to my point. I want to thank you for everything you've done. Ever since you came into my mom's life, you also came into ours. The house felt more lively. For a long time I felt like I wasn't living in a house with total strangers - asides from my sister. You made my mom smile and just the kind of energy she had made me smile. I was happy that you took care of her and made her happy. It gave me hope that my mom would one day start opening up to me as well.

I'm sorry that this happened and I'm sorry that you have to be heartbroken this way. I don't know if you'll come back so I just thought you'd like to know that I'll miss you. I'll miss the sarcasm you had and all the knowledge you shared with me. I appreciated that you understood me and caught on my jokes when I'd talk to my mom. I really felt like you could've been my second father.

Take care and have a safe trip to the Philippines. I don't know if I'll ever see you again, so I'd like to thank you for have being part of not just my mom's life, but my life.

Sincerely,
Jen