To Eric, My buddies have been interacting with one another for over thirty years.
One of the couples moved into a continuous care community almost a year ago because of cognitive and physical problems.
Only two of the women in our group had visited with them throughout this time, which is surprising.
I started telling people about my visit at a recent social event. The group switched topics before I could finish.
We dismiss people as soon as they get sick or incapacitated, which is very unfortunate. Remind your readers that family members and friends who are confined to their homes or in assisted living facilities appreciate the companionship. You may brighten their day with just one hour of your time.
Worried Friend
To My Friend: This serves as a helpful reminder for everyone even though it isn’t a question. Additionally, you have an opportunity. I hope you’ll take a moment to talk to your pals about how you felt about their seeming lack of concern. Sometimes being a friend means crying out, and other times it means simply showing up.
Stories by
R. Eric Thomas
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Asking Eric: I m worried about my brother s most recent girlfriend becoming abusive
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Asking Eric: I feel like there s not enough time, money, love in the world to help our volatile daughter
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Asking Eric: Heads up gift givers – you don t get to dictate how gifts are used
To Eric, I steer clear of a friend of mine whenever possible.
The worst thing about this woman, aside from the fact that she can’t leave me, is the vile way she talks about her daughter. She also clings to me whenever she sees me.
Every motion she makes is controlled, and she puts her down whenever she can. In my view, her daughter was a very kind and affectionate youngster, but as an adult, she is now a hopeless heroin addict.
Despite having nothing to be proud of, this woman often complains about how she sees other people with their kids and how happy they are. Additionally, she continues to talk negatively about her daughter, who is now thirty, and wants to maintain control over her.
Should I give her a mouthful of the home truths about her daughter that she deserves, or should I keep listening to her bullshit?
Angry
To the Exasperated: Shall you keep squandering your time? In this one beautiful life? No.
For inquiries, contact R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or by mail at P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Subscribe to his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com and follow him on Instagram.
