A woman came to my beauty salon in tears.

Her son’s wedding was in some hours, and she only had $12.

“I don’t want to embarrass him with my looks,” she whispered, her voice trembling.

I could feel the pain in her eyes — not just about her appearance, but about feeling like she wasn’t enough on such an important day.

I gently sat her down and assured her that today, she would feel beautiful.

I styled her hair, and then did her makeup with care, and gave her the elegant look she deserved.

As she tried to hand me the crumpled bills, I smiled and said, “This one’s on me.”

She hugged me tightly before she left, tears of gratitude streaming down her face.