I’ve always felt age is just a number, but my daughter-in-law Karen tested this belief. At a summer gathering at my son’s grand estate, Karen, who’d become increasingly arrogant since marrying my son, criticized me sharply. Seeing me in my favorite swimsuit, she sneered, “Old lady, no way you’re wearing that. Hide your wrinkles!” Her words hurt deeply, but I resolved to respond with dignity.

I planned my revenge carefully, choosing the right moment during her book club meeting. Serving refreshments, I mentioned, “Karen, I hope your charity event goes well,” and then presented an album of her pre-marriage photos. As her friends noticed, Karen’s face flushed with embarrassment. “Mary, this is inappropriate,” she said. I calmly replied, “We all come from humble beginnings.”

The shift in mood was evident; Karen’s arrogance diminished. My son, upon learning about the incident, understood my pain and ensured it wouldn’t happen again. I regained my dignity and confidence, proving that our spirits remain ageless regardless of our wrinkles.