This scarf was a Christmas present from my mom. 

I come from a pretty humble family background. Neither of my parents are particularly wealthy, and they never buy lavish things for themselves. 

This was a really nice scarf, something they would never buy for themselves.

Me: Mom, it’s great, but why did you get me something so expensive? You never even buy nice things for yourself.

Mom: Michael, I know you’re making lots of money now and your standard of living has improved since moving out. You’re used to nicer things. I just wanted to get you something that matches your standards, I wanted to give you something that was good enough.

Me: …Mom…

I felt like I couldn’t accept, but at the same time I felt like I HAD to accept. I kinda just stood there for a few minutes like an idiot.

When I was younger, I never cared about making lots of money. I just wanted to be successful to make my parents proud.