She hadn’t known what would happen to our family.
She had simply wanted to leave me something meaningful.
My dearest Rebecca,
You have always wanted to make things right for everyone. Even as a little girl, you couldn’t walk past someone who needed help.
But I hope you remember that being strong doesn’t mean carrying every burden alone.
People will disappoint you. Sometimes even the people you love most will make choices you cannot understand.
You can love someone without excusing what they’ve done.
You can forgive without pretending the past never happened.
And you can seek justice without letting anger become the center of your life.
Whatever happens, build a future that belongs to you.
Love, Mom.
I read the letter twice.
Then I rested my head against Dad’s shoulder.
