About three years ago, my husband left me alone with our one-and-a-half-year-old daughter. It’s safe to say those were difficult times. My daughter and I were living in a rented apartment, and I couldn’t find work because there was no one to take care of her, and she was too young for daycare. My husband showed no interest in her life whatsoever.
One day, I asked a friend to look after my daughter for a while so I could quickly run to the store for groceries. When I returned, I saw an elderly lady standing at the crosswalk with a bag, and no one was letting her cross. I approached her, took her by the hand, and we crossed the road together. She stopped and wished me all the good things imaginable, wondering why my eyes looked so sad. Without waiting for my answer, she invited me to her place for tea.
My friend texted me later, saying my daughter was asleep, and she was working on her computer. So, I agreed to visit the elderly lady. Over a cup of tea, I poured out my heart, as if I had been waiting for someone to listen. She listened attentively and then said, “My daughter-in-law, Marusia, has a private kindergarten. Let me inquire with her; perhaps, they have job openings.” Without hesitation, I agreed. In the next moment, the elderly lady was already on the phone with Marusia, giving her my number and instructing her to get in touch with me as soon as possible.
Marusia turned out to be a very positive and friendly person. She was already familiar with my story, inquired about my education, and promised to call me back. Later that evening, she did call and told me that she would like me to join her team. She also assured me that she would find activities for my daughter in the kindergarten so that I wouldn’t have to leave her alone at home.
For the past 2.5 years, I have been working as a kindergarten teacher. My job brings me immense joy because I love children and easily connect with them. I am immensely grateful to Marusia and, of course, to that elderly lady who, like a fairy godmother, changed my life with her appearance.
Now, every week, my daughter and I visit her like a grandmother. She has become like family to me, and my daughter considers her a beloved grandmother. I would have never imagined that such a random act and chance encounter could so profoundly alter my life.
