Let me know if I can be of help

[ymjoosten]

How many times have you said that to someone you know is going through a hard time? I was talking to one of my friends who is now taking care of her mother--something I did for ten years. She said it's frustrating because there really isn't anything she can ask someone to do, short of something they'd never want to do (like change an adult diaper.) It's such a tough position to be in. Here's my suggestion if you have a friend who is going through this life issue--just listen. That's really what a person wants in that situation. That and maybe cook for them or do their laundry if you're a good enough friend. Being in that part of your adult life where you become a caregiver to the older generation, often while the younger generation still lives with you is like being pulled apart on a rack, but it's also full of a lot of joy. I watch my younger friends and marvel at how much work they do on a daily basis.