Mum, you always said I was selfish, replied Emily with a faint smile. So I gave your best tea set to Aunt Margaret.
Since childhood, Lucy had grown used to her belongings never staying long in the house. Her mother, Margaret Whitmore, had a habit of gifting her daughters things away whenever visiting friends.
Mum, why did you take my doll? Lucy asked, her voice trembling.
Darling, Margaret said, stroking Lucys hair, I know how much you love it, but little Sophie across the road is poorly and heartbroken just now. I thought our doll might cheer her up. We can always buy another, but chances to do good dont come often.
Lucy stared at the doll, then at her mother, a tear slipping free. She didnt want to let it go.
But Margaret cared more for others opinions than her daughters tears.
Dont be so stingy, she snapped, shooing Lucy off to her homework.
As Lucy grew, her books and clothes joined the list of gifts for others. At first, she resigned herself, believing her mother meant wellthat she truly was selfish.
But in time, Lucy realised Margaret wasnt acting out of kindness. Resentment festered.
Im off to Aunt Margarets, her mother announced, lifting Lucys winter coat from the hook.
Taking my coat now? Lucy smirked.
Dont be silly, it wouldnt fit me, Margaret replied awkwardly.
Then why take it? Lucy pressed.
Aunt Margarets daughter needs it. Hers is torn, and they wont buy a new one with spring coming.
So I wear a ruined coat? Lucy demanded.
You wont need it soon, Margaret said, flustered. Take mine if you must.
Lucy clenched her fists.
*Why does she always give away my things? Why does she think this is right?*
For the first time, she stepped forward and snatched the coat back.
Mum, why do you keep giving my things away? Its not normal!
Youre being selfish. Sharing is kind, Margaret scolded.
Then share *your* things.
Margaret stared, baffled, before storming out.
Relieved, Lucy hung the coat up. But the next day, Margaret took it without a word.
When Lucy found it gone, she wept. That day, she knew the only way to keep her things was to leave.
Years later, with a degree and flat of her own, Lucy still visiteduntil Margaret eyed her new jeans.
Lucy, Ill give these to your cousin. They should fit.
No. I bought them. Theyre mine.
Margaret scoffed. Still so tight-fisted!
Easy to be generous with someone elses things. Try giving yours.
Margaret left in a huff.
Lucy plotted her revenge.
Her late fathers sisters birthday loomedAunt Margaret adored her but scorned Lucys mother.
The night before, Lucy took Margarets treasured china set, pristine despite its age, and gifted it.
Aunt Margaret was delighted. Her mother was livid.
Wheres my china? she demanded.
You always said to share, Lucy replied sweetly. So I gave it to Aunt Margaret.
Margaret spluttered. You shouldve asked!
Did you ever ask me?
Children dont teach adults! Margaret shrieked. I bought those thingsI decide!
Actually, Dad bought that set. So I gave away *my* inheritance.
Margaret threw her out.
They didnt speak for a yearuntil New Years Eve, when pride finally cracked.
