This is a bit long, but I need some advice. Growing up, I never really valued my stepfather. I felt embarrassed by his job as a cleaner, even though he worked incredibly hard to provide for us. I always dreamed of becoming an architect, but because of financial struggles, I took a job as a waiter to support myself. Eventually, I gave up on college altogether.
Years later, he handed me a folder that completely floored me. Inside was proof of a college fund in my name—money he had been secretly saving for years. I was stunned, and then furious. I confronted him, shouting, “Why didn’t you tell me? I could have gone to college!” He gave me a sad smile and said, “I didn’t want to pressure you. I wanted you to choose your own path.”
I know it sounds like something out of a Hallmark movie, but it doesn’t feel that way. I’m still angry. I feel like he robbed me of the chance to pursue my dreams. He insists it was my choice, but how could I have chosen when I didn’t know the truth?
Now, he continues cleaning, and I’m still waitressing. He seems content, while I feel bitter and resentful. Part of me doesn’t even want to take the money anymore because of the frustration it stirs up. Am I wrong for feeling this way? Am I just being unreasonable? I honestly don’t know what to do—I’m completely torn.