I was a very poor child. I ended up staying for dinner at a classmate’s house when I was thirteen. Everybody at the table continued to look at me. I was shocked to see my friend’s mother at our house when I got home from school the following day. My mother’s face was red. “We need to talk,” she said, turning to face me.
I recall being completely unaware of what was happening. Ms. Allen, the mother of one of my friends, was standing by the window, looking both uncomfortable and concerned. Being a shy child, I thought I must have done something wrong right away. I made an effort to remember whether I had said something impolite or inadvertently broken a plate the previous evening.
I was asked to sit down by my mother. Subsequently, Ms. Allen began speaking quietly. “I observed your reaction during dinner last night,” she said. I didn’t understand why you wouldn’t look at anyone at first, but now I see that it’s because you’re not used to eating enough. In addition to being hungry, you also appeared ashamed.
My ears rang for a second, and I had trouble understanding what she was saying. All I could recall was that a basket of warm rolls, thick meat slices, and a vegetable spread had been passed around. It had been difficult for me to concentrate on anything else because I had been so impressed by the meal. I must have looked at the dishes as if they were alien objects.
After clearing her throat, my mother continued to blush and said, “Ms. Allen wants to help us in some way.”
My heart tightened. I didn’t want assistance. I had had enough of charity and handouts. Ms. Allen struck me as being incredibly sincere when I looked at her. She wasn’t treating me like a helpless stray dog. She appeared concerned, as though she truly wanted to make a positive impact. My pride still ached, though.
She approached me cautiously. Would you be interested in having dinner with me on a regular basis? Perhaps even lend me a hand in the kitchen. There is no requirement that it be official. But when you tasted a real meal, I saw how you brightened, even for a brief moment. I am aware that there isn’t always enough in your house.
My chest felt constricted in a way I couldn’t quite explain. I was a little relieved. A second part of me was embarrassed. A tiny glimmer of interest then appeared—cooking with Ms. Allen? In fact, that sounded enjoyable—possibly even empowering.
I glanced at my mother, who was trying to blink away the tears in her eyes. My mother said quietly, “Only if you want to.” “I am unable to provide you with that range of food. However, you have been graciously invited by Ms. Allen.
