Getting a glimpse into the past is always fascinating. But what’s even more fascinating is finding out just how similar we still are as human beings, even when thousands of years separate us (case in point: this hilarious ancient complaint from a teenager who wanted new clothes). And when it comes to a trait that’s endured throughout history, nothing has lasted longer than the way moms love their kids — a fact that’s being heart-wrenchingly highlighted in a viral video from Britain’s Bodleian Library.

Written in Greek on an age-worn scrap of papyrus, it’s a letter from a woman named Sarapias to her son-in-law, Erminos. Her daughter is pregnant, and she’s (rightfully) concerned; in the letter, she begs her son-in-law to bring her daughter home so she can give birth with her mom by her side

See Full Page