‘Modern Love' Podcast: A Mother's Fierce, Extravagant Love (Encore)

New York Times

06-05-2025

In honor of Mother's Day this week, we revisit the story of one mom who went to extraordinary lengths to make sure her daughter always felt her love, even after she was gone.
Each time Genevieve Kingston reached a milestone — a birthday, her first period, high school graduation — she'd reach into the box her mom had packed for her and pull out the note and gift that went with that occasion. Her mom had known she was dying of cancer, so during Kingston's childhood, she'd poured an incredible amount of care and creativity into the project. Today we hear Kingston's essay about the discoveries the box held for her, from her first birthday without her mom at age 12, until she turned 30. Now, the box is nearly empty.
We also hear a mother's 'Tiny Love Story' (a Modern Love essay in miniature) about trying to connect with her teenage son, and get his surprisingly thoughtful reaction.