Still, She Got Up - by Trust Egbegi

Tess had always carried more than people could see.As a child, she had learned to live carefully — not out of shyness, but out of necessity. Her father ruled their home like a storm. His voice was law, and Tess, even as a little girl, became skilled at shrinking herself to keep the peace. For years, she thought silence was survival.And it was. But it also taught her to bury her needs so deep she forgot they mattered. --- Then she grew up.Fell in love.Married a man who, in the beginning, felt like freedom. But time revealed another lesson: sometimes people can love you with words and not actions. Her efforts, her sacrifices, her softness — all invisible to him. Still, she stayed. Still, she loved. And when her father grew sick, Tess was the one who cared for him.The same father who had controlled her life was now fragile in her hands — and somehow, she didn’t return the hurt.She simply did what needed to be done. --- But this story isn’t about the pain.It’s about what Tess chose next. She became a mother — to two children.And quietly, she made a vow: “They will never feel small in their own home.” --- Every morning, Tess woke before dawn.She made breakfast.Pressed uniforms.Braided her daughter’s hair while reminding her she was smart.Told her son he could always ask questions.Made sure their voices mattered — even when hers still trembled inside. She cooked. She worked full-time.She came home late but never too late to check homework or listen to their day. She wasn’t perfect.She was tired.But she was present.And that is a kind of resilience that no one claps for, but everyone needs. --- Some days she sat at the edge of her bed, staring into the dark, wondering if anyone noticed.Wondering if being the strong one would ever stop being so lonely. But then a small voice would call out,"Mummy?"And she would rise. --- Tess wasn’t strong because she never cried.She was strong because she didn’t let her childhood define her motherhood.She was strong because she was building something better — quietly, and on her own terms. --- Still, she got up.Even when she didn’t feel like it.Even when the past whispered too loud.Even when her body ached from giving so much. She got up.Not for applause.Not for validation.But because she believed her children deserved something different — and she was willing to become it.--- Do you know a Tess in your life?Or maybe you are her — steady, soft, and still standing.If so, take a breath. You’re doing more than enough. And your quiet strength matters more than you know.Please share your thoughts in the comments below Thank you for reading <img alt="" src="/media/inline_insight_image/1000041141.jpg"/>

Other insights from Trust Egbegi

Referral Earning

Points-to-Coupons