Gerald Nizbit’s eyes widened as he read the contents of his mother’s will on his screen. He promptly picked up the phone, his voice firm. “Helen, get my lawyer, then Margaret Pratt, and finally, my mother.”
His assistant, Helen, knew Gerald’s impatience all too well. She quickly made the calls, and soon Gerald was speaking with his lawyer, Sam. “You made a mistake, young man!” Gerald exclaimed. “This will was meant for my mother, not me.”
After dismissing his lawyer, Gerald called Margaret Pratt, demanding immediate action. Finally, he summoned Helen to retrieve his mother.
Edith Nizbit, Gerald’s mother, was taken aback when her son instructed her to pack her bags. “Commence packing immediately,” Gerald said. “You’re leaving by 4:00 pm.”
Edith, sixty-two and struggling with arthritis, had been living with Gerald, her youngest son, for a year. She had bequeathed her wealth to her two eldest children, believing Gerald would understand.
As Edith packed, tears filled her eyes. She felt she had hurt her most loving child.
When Gerald arrived, Edith tried to explain, but he cut her off. “Mother, I’ll listen later.” They drove in silence until Edith asked, “Where are we going?” Gerald ignored her, turning on the radio.
Only when they arrived at a private airport did Gerald reveal his surprise. “You’re going to Tahiti for two weeks, Mother. Your arthritis will benefit, and I need time with you.”
Edith’s tears of sorrow turned to joy. She had misunderstood her son’s intentions.
This heartwarming story teaches valuable lessons: don’t assume others’ motivations based on personal concerns, and true value lies in the heart, not in price tags. Gerald cherished the memories and sentimental items his mother left him more than any material wealth.
As Edith and Gerald spent time together in Tahiti, their bond grew stronger. Sometimes, misunderstandings can lead to unexpected gifts and deeper connections.
