50 Y.O. Gets Scolded By Mom For Collecting Toys, Only For Them To Call Her Out Publicly For Giving Away Their Toys As A Kid

It’s been over four decades, but the wounds are still fresh.

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• November 14, 2023

Childhood is a magical time for anyone to spread their wings and enjoy life to the fullest. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to experience this blissful phase without some pain.

In this Reddit story, we delve into the complex relationship between a now 50-year-old individual and their parents, who scared them emotionally during their childhood —a wound that has still not healed till this day.

The story begins with our narrator (OP) reflecting on their 50th birthday gifts - a mix of liquor, toys/Lego, and a new planer. These gifts, while eclectic, perfectly encapsulate their personality and interests.

However, the joy of receiving these gifts is soon overshadowed by their parents' criticism, particularly about the toys. OP’s mom in particular, expressed disappointment over OP’s preference for keeping the toys unopened and not sharing them with the younger kids at the party.

This situation ignites a deeper conversation about the past. OP recalls a childhood when their toys were given away by their parents without consent, leaving deep emotional scars.

One particularly painful memory dates back 44 years on a beautiful Christmas day. Their parents, having forgotten to buy a gift for someone else, rewrapped one of OP’s just-opened presents and gave it away. Sadly, this pattern of taking away their toys and giving it away continued throughout their childhood.

Now 50, OP’s mother attempts to repeat the same act by taking away their X-Wing set to give it to the grandchildren. But this time, OP confronts their mother, leading to a heated exchange. In the end, OP’s parents are left embarrassed, and the family is divided.

This story is not just about toys or a birthday party; it's a reminder of how childhood experiences shape our adult lives and relationships. It raises questions about parental boundaries, respect for personal belongings, and the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma.

OP’s dilemma, while unique in its details, resonates with anyone who has struggled with setting boundaries with family and the challenge of maintaining one's own identity amidst long-standing family expectations.

The story in detail

A little background

OP responded to their mom’s criticism by reminding her of when she used to deprive him of his toys

OP’s parents slammed them for bringing up such memories after several decades

Here’s how the Reddit community reacted to the story:

“NTA, your parents need to figure out that they were done parenting you 30 years ago.“

“Mom can run on down to Walmart and buy all the sets she wants for the kids to romp on.”

“If they didn't want their sh*tty past parenting conduct brought up, they should have left it deep in the past.“

“NTA and this is probably what they needed to hear. The fact it was public is going to make the lesson stick harder.”

“Maybe try giving away their valuable things or lend it and see how they feel.“

“Your parents have never learned to have respect for other people's belongings.“

“NTA. Its weird to go to someone else's birthday party, and try to dictate what they do with their presents.”

“They're just mad that you destroyed the illusions they have built up over the years that they weren't mediocre parents at best.“

“Public calling or not, that’s the consequence of their actions and they should deal with them as adults do.”

“I wonder if she would like you re-gifting her new clothes or old jewelry.“

“NTA I can't believe your parents are still giving away your toys!“

The Reddit community is solidly behind OP on this matter. Commenters applaud them for putting their mom in check when she tried crossing their boundaries.

It's sad that even after four decades, OP’s parents are still eager to give their cherished toys away. The difference is that OP is no longer the helpless 6-year-old who would have watched in silence.

We’d love to get your thoughts on this story. Join the conversation in the comments below.

Jesse