My Mom Got Fired by Her Manager for a Ridiculous Reason —

Ten years ago, my mom, Cathy, the beloved “Cookie Lady” at Beller’s Bakery, was fired by her new manager, Derek, for giving leftover muffins and bread to a homeless veteran. Her kindness was deemed theft, leaving her in tears. I was a helpless teenager then, but the memory of her trembling hands and folded sunflower apron stayed with me. Now, at thirty-five, I run a food-tech company donating surplus food to shelters. When Derek

applied for a job, unaware of who I was, I confronted him during the interview. He bragged about firing an “older woman” for giving away food, not knowing it was my mom. I revealed the truth, told him there was no job for him, and suggested he try the shelter. The weight of that day lifted. Mom now leads our community outreach, still sharing her warmth. Karma worked through us—her quiet resilience and my chance to right a wrong, bringing us peace.