The graduation ceremony was filled with joy and anticipation. Students in caps and gowns, families cheering, and cameras flashing created an electric atmosphere. As I waited for my name to be called, I scanned the crowd for my mom and stepdad, convinced they were just out of sight. “They’re probably running late,” I told myself.

When my turn came, I walked up to the stage, hoping to see my mom’s proud smile or my stepdad’s thumbs up. But they weren’t there. After the ceremony, I checked my phone, finding a message from my mom: “Sorry, we couldn’t make it. Something came up with your stepsister. We’ll celebrate later. Congrats!”

Back home, I confronted my parents. My mom’s excuse was infuriating: “Your stepsister broke a nail. She threw a huge tantrum and demanded we take her to the beauty salon.” My stepsister shrugged, saying, “It was an emergency for me.” Their priorities were clear, and I decided to leave, calling my prom date’s family for support.

Years later, at my college graduation, my parents were absent again. My mom’s excuse? “Iris is pregnant and had a craving for a specific cake. We’ll celebrate later. Congrats!” Despite the repeated disappointment, I realized that their actions don’t define my worth. Supported by my boyfriend Justin and his loving family, I knew I could overcome any challenge.