The night she whispered, “Thanks for staying,” I realized something no parenting book had ever taught me: presence often speaks louder than words.

It wasn’t about fixing fevers or shielding her from pain. It was about showing up. On a cold bathroom tile, with a faded blue pillow and more questions than answers, she needed a constant. Not perfection—just someone who wouldn’t leave when it got hard.

I watched her walk beside her mother and saw the beginnings of a bridge she’ll have to decide whether to cross. And I’ll be there, quietly, without pulling her back or pushing her forward.

We’ve traded bedtime stories for podcast recommendations. Hair braids for sarcastic comebacks. But one thing hasn’t changed—when she says, “Thanks for coming,” I’ll always answer, “Always.”

Moral: Love isn’t loud. It doesn’t always come with big gestures or flawless answers. Sometimes, love is lying silently on a bathroom floor, showing your child that no matter how far they drift, your heart is their home. Be still. Be near. That’s how you stay.