During my wedding, my in-laws mocked my mother in front of 204 people. then they turned to one of the guests and said, “that’s not a mother. that’s a mistake in a dress.” my fiancé laughed. I didn’t. I got up and called off the wedding in front of everyone. then I did this. the next day, their world collapsed because…

The wedding venue was so over the top, it almost felt like a parody: white columns, crystal candle holders, and around 200 guests in their best suits and last names. In the center was me and Adam—well, mostly Adam, the family’s golden boy. I was the shiny acquisition with nice teeth.

My mom, Pam, sat next to me, quiet and composed in a dress she’d found on clearance and altered overnight. Her hair was perfect, as always. She’s a hairstylist. Someone at the next table whispered, “Did she do her own hair? Impressive.” Impressive is raising a kid solo for 25 years in the same tiny apartment. This was just hair.