Honestly, everyone has their fair share of troubles in life, dont they? Lifes like a massive obstacle course, packed with challenges all the way, though we do get the occasional moment to catch our breath. But in my case, aside from the usual dramas, Ive got one extra: my daughter.
Im 48, divorced, and have two kids. My eldest, Matthew, is completely independent these days. Hes lived in another city for ages and doesnt need my help anymorequite the opposite, really; hes the one who helps me out. But my younger daughter, Emily, is a totally different story: shes still painfully immature and helpless. Shes always demanding I help her with the grandkids. But Ive got my own house and garden to look after, plus Im working part-time. Everyone can see Ive got enough on my plate, but that never seems to cross Emilys mind.
She appears to be convinced that I just lounge around at home all day, so I should drop everything and come running whenever she needs something. And if I say I cant because Im busy, she gets all offended. She only lives a few miles away, but every trip to her place eats up a chunk of my day. My blood pressure tends to shoot up, and the grandkids are a handfulnoisy and downright cheeky sometimes. Its hard to keep them in check. Yet Emily just leaves them with me and heads off to hang out with her friends for the whole day.
But she never seems to accept my point of view. If she really needs me to look after the kids so badly, why not come round here, help with the housework and garden, and then Ill nip over to hers and take care of the grandchildren? But nope. Emily insists I have to help her out. Shouldnt she be helping me at home, too? No? Well, then I dont see why I should drop everything for her. So I told her straight.
Now, my phones been quiet for ages. Not a single call. Well, while Im busy with the house and the garden, I need to focus on myselfon my health. This is life, isnt it? First you raise your kids, then the grandkids, and when do you ever actually get to live?
