When my granddaughter Sarah’s wedding plans took an unexpected turn, my husband Jim and I were shocked by her sense of entitlement. What started as excitement for her big day quickly turned into a painful lesson about gratitude.

Sarah’s wedding news was a joy at first. We were thrilled and eager to help. But then, we received a letter from her with a $5,000 check and a note demanding we pay for a vacation with her fiancé on her birthday. The note also criticized our past gifts, calling them “cheap trash.” We were stunned. Jim and I had always supported Sarah, giving her handmade quilts, heirloom jewelry, and financial help through college. We thought these gestures meant something to her.

After reading the letter, we decided to teach her a lesson. We gathered all the gifts we had given her over the years—quilts, jewelry, photographs, and even the bike we’d bought her as a child. It was painful, but we knew it was necessary. We also withdrew our financial support for her wedding and wrote her a letter explaining our decision.

In the letter, we told Sarah that her actions showed a lack of gratitude and respect. We hoped she would reflect on her behavior and learn that love isn’t about material gifts—it’s about valuing the people who care for you.

The fallout was swift. Sarah called angrily, accusing us of ruining her life and wedding. Family members were divided—some sided with Sarah, while others supported our decision. Despite the pain, Jim and I stand by our choice. We believe in teaching tough lessons and hope that, in time, Sarah will learn the importance of respect and gratitude.