A Mother's Secret Comfort

I'm in my 50s now, and I've always been the kind of person who takes care of everyone else. My kids grew up thinking that was just what Moms do - be there when they needed me. Now that they're all grown up themselves with families of their own, it's strange how lonely I feel sometimes. No one needs my comfort or care like they used to. So, for the past year, I've started indulging in something different. It's a secret hobby, and no, not what you might think. Every night before bed, I curl up with my favorite teddy bear and watch cartoons from when I was young - shows about princesses and heroes having grand adventures, living simple lives where everything is good and safe. Sometimes it feels like the only place I'm needed anymore. And then there's the other part...when I meet someone who understands this space, we explore it together, sometimes even in play that recalls those simpler times of childhood care and affection. It’s my little escape, where I can be the child again and feel safe while also giving myself the kind of nurturing love I crave but rarely find in real life. This confession is for me - to acknowledge this secret corner of my heart before it eats away at me completely.