Mom and Dad might not openly express their feelings every day, but they show their love through odd, heartwarming, and often funny gestures. At times, it can be irritating — until one day, it clicks: the greatest gift in life is the quiet assurance that someone always has your back, and to them, you’ll always come first, no matter what the world thinks.

Story 1

Growing up with a single dad turned me into someone who can handle just about anything — changing bulbs, wiring, even rebuilding a car. Thanks to him, I developed a passion for vehicles and became a taxi driver.

Now, when male passengers get in, they stare at me in disbelief. It’s like they’ve never seen a woman behind the wheel before. If only they knew I can out-fish them and do more push-ups than most of them! © Caramel / VK

Story 2

At 17, I started feeling like the odd one out — short, red-haired, freckled, and constantly teased for it. I tried to hide it all with heavy makeup, dark hair dye, and baggy clothes. My dad noticed the change and gently asked why.

Eventually, I broke down and told him everything. He smiled and said, “Irene, sure, you’re short, redheaded, and your legs aren’t supermodel-long. That’s what makes you unique! You’re beautiful — just like me.” Somehow, those words helped me accept myself. © Unknown author / Pikabu

Story 3

Every time my dad came home, he’d make up stories like, “Guess who I saw on the way home? A huge rabbit under a streetlight!” My mom and I would play along, puzzled. Then he’d pull out a big chocolate bar and say, “The rabbit told me to give you this!”

I’m 24 now, and I still fall for that silly rabbit tale like I’m 6. © Overheard / VK

Story 4

When my son was in 10th grade, I got a call from school saying he couldn’t wear a ponytail. It looked great on him, but they claimed it broke the rules.

So my husband went to the meeting — with his long biker ponytail trailing down his back. After that, they never brought up my son’s hair again. The school charter had no rule against ponytails, and our stance was clear.

Story 5

We didn’t have much money. One summer in 9th grade, I worked at a veggie depot to save up for school clothes. When I went to get the money from under the mattress — it was gone! I cried, thinking it was stolen.

Mom calmly said, “I hid it so no one else would find it.” That weekend, she took me to the market, and we bought new school clothes, a coat, and a bag. She even chipped in extra. I adore her for that.

Story 6

People often joke that firstborns are like the “first pancake” — always a bit of a mess. I once teased my mom and asked if I was her “messy pancake.”

She looked at me and replied, “I always heat the pan just right. Our first pancake is always perfect.” That answer left no room for doubt. © Not everyone will understand / VK WATCH MORE