I had also assumed that the kindness I saw in her sewing room reflected the whole of her behavior.
It did not.
That realization was uncomfortable, but it taught me to ask better questions.
Instead of assuming I knew why Lily had made the dress, I needed to listen to her explanation. Instead of treating her as either a good daughter or a disappointing one, I needed to help her understand that she was responsible for her actions and capable of making better choices.
Most importantly, I needed to create a home where she could tell the truth—even when that truth was difficult to hear.
Parents cannot prevent every mistake their children make. They can, however, help them face those mistakes honestly and learn how to repair harm.
The Real Meaning of the Dress
The green dress was beautiful. The blue cardigan carried memories that could never be replaced.
