Man Who Put Work First His Whole Life Could Never Get His Daughter to Talk to Him Until a Christmas Call Changed Everything — Story of the Day

A lifetime of putting work first left Tom estranged from his family. Now, nearing 70, he faces worsening health and a daughter who won’t take his calls after years of neglect. But an unexpected Christmas scare forces him to confront his choices, leading to a moment that could change everything.

Tom sat in his quiet, empty office, the only sound the faint hum of the heater. Papers were neatly stacked on his desk, but his tired eyes wandered to the decorated Christmas tree glowing softly in the corner.

It was festive but felt out of place in the lonely space. He always stayed late, long after others had gone home.

His friends had retired, but work was his anchor. With a sigh, he picked up his phone and dialed his daughter, Daisy.

“Hello,” Tom said, his voice steady but hesitant.

“Hi, Dad,” Daisy replied, sounding distracted.

“What does Theo want for Christmas this year?” Tom asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

“He wants a Furby,” Daisy said.

“A Furby? What’s that?” Tom asked, frowning.

“It’s a toy. It talks and moves. All the kids at school have one,” Daisy explained.

“Would it be okay if I just gave him money instead?” Tom asked carefully.

“Uh… yeah, I guess,” Daisy replied in a disappointed tone, then hung up quickly.

After working a little longer, Tom gathered his belongings. His desk, once bustling with life and cluttered with files, now looked too clean, almost sterile.

Locking the office door behind him, he stepped into the chilly evening air and drove home, the radio playing softly but failing to distract his thoughts.

When he entered his empty house, the silence greeted him like an old, unwelcome friend. He hung his coat on the hook near the door and stared at the dimly lit living room.

The same sofa, the same TV, the same memories. For years, he’d lived...