My heart sank as I scanned the crowd for my parents at my graduation because they were nowhere to be seen. When I discovered the reason behind their absence, a chilling realization set in: I couldn’t continue living in the shadows of their neglect. The choice I made next would change everything.

I’d been waiting for this day forever — graduation. Standing on that stage, clutching my diploma, I scanned the crowd, my eyes searching for my parents. Everyone else had their families cheering for them and snapping pictures, but my parents were nowhere to be seen. My heart sank. How could they not be here?

After the ceremony, I frantically dialed my mom’s number. She answered on the third ring. “Mom? Where are you guys?” My voice trembled with frustration and worry. “Sorry we didn’t come. You gotta forgive us. Hurry home,” she said before hanging up.

A chilling realization set in: I couldn’t continue living in the shadows of their neglect. The choice I made next would change everything.