When my estranged father, who left 20 years ago, called from his deathbed, I was torn between anger and curiosity. His final wish revealed shocking truths.
I was getting ready for bed when an unfamiliar number called, followed by a text: “ALICE, THIS IS YOUR DAD. PLEASE CALL, I AM IN THE HOSPITAL.” My heart stopped. Dad? After twenty years? Curiosity won, and I called back.
“Dad?”
“Alice, it’s me. I… I don’t have much time.”
“Why are you calling now?”
“I need to explain… to ask something of you. But please, don’t tell your mother.” He revealed that my grandfather paid him to disappear because he thought Dad was a failure. “I took the money to secure your future.”
“Why didn’t you come back?”
“I couldn’t. But I watched from a distance, saw your graduation, your volleyball games.”
I felt my world tilt. “Why didn’t Mom tell me?”
“Maybe she thought she was protecting you.”
“What do you want now?”
“I need to see you, Alice. One last time before I go.”
I decided to go. At the hospital, he looked frail. “Alice,” he whispered.
“Why did you do it, Dad?”
“I thought it was the best way to secure a future for you. I wrote letters every year. They’re in a safety deposit box.”
After his death, I found the letters. They were filled with his regrets and love. I confronted Mom, who admitted she thought it was best for me too.
In the end, I used the money to start a scholarship fund in his name, honoring his memory and sacrifices.
Avoid leaving your charger plugged in without your phone: Here are the top 3 reasons why
Always Unplug Your Charger When Not in Use: Here Are 3 Important Reasons
Many of us have the habit of leaving chargers plugged in after our devices are fully charged, but there are some hidden risks with this practice that you might not know. Here’s why unplugging chargers is important:
Risks of Leaving Chargers Plugged In
- Constant Power Drain: Even when not actively charging, a plugged-in charger uses a small amount of power. Although this “vampire energy” consumption seems minor, it adds up over time, increasing your electricity bill and contributing to energy waste.
- Overheating Risk: Leaving a charger continuously connected can cause it to overheat. This heat buildup can gradually damage internal components, like capacitors, shortening the charger’s lifespan.
- Fire Hazard: Though uncommon, plugged-in chargers can become a fire risk, especially if a power surge causes them to overheat. In rare cases, this may lead to smoking or even ignition, posing a serious fire hazard.
- Electrical Safety Concerns: Exposed cords of constantly plugged-in chargers can be a risk in homes with young children or pets, where chewing or tampering could lead to electric shock.
Safety Tips
- Unplug When Not in Use: Avoid leaving chargers in outlets when not charging to reduce power waste and lower overheating risk.
- Inspect Regularly: Check your chargers for wear or damage, replacing them as needed.
- Keep Out of Reach: Ensure chargers are stored safely, away from children and pets, to prevent accidents.
Taking these simple steps can enhance home safety and extend the life of your chargers. Share these tips with friends and family to help keep everyone safe.
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