This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
While I'm away, readers give the advice.
On not raising a bully • So often we hear today about "helicopter" parents who, in the words of the old hymn, try with all their might to keep their little "special" darlings, "safe and secure from all alarm." Cannot be done and even should not be done. If one is not taught how to fight back or does not learn early on about the slings and arrows of misfortune, then he/she limps into adulthood and soon realizes that his/her parents did no great favors in their protection, not to mention for their friendship. I was bullied in grammar school by two older boys who made my life hell. One day, I was walking down the street and saw them coming toward me from the opposite directions, . "Oh poop," I thought. When they got close, I looked them in the eye and said, "Why don't you just kiss my ass!" They stood there for a bit, shocked, and then began to laugh. As they rode off on their bikes, one of them said, "You know, W—-, you're all right!" A lesson was learned that afternoon: Although I was no good at defending myself physically, making your bully laugh sometimes works just as well.
C.
On sibling s who don't help with an elderly parent's care • I am one of three sisters. When our father died 12 years ago, I became my mother's lifeline, mainly because I live the closest to her. Five years ago she was moved from her apartment into assisted living and it was very hard for her being confined to one room. I became the "sole" family caregiver. My two sisters would simply say, if you need help, just let me know. I got angrier and angrier as time went on until my husband suggested that I just let it go and give to my mom what time and effort I could. Her last two years were very special to me. On her last day we received a call that her death was getting close and my husband and I went to be with her. I called my sisters, who told me they didn't need to come because they had said their goodbyes. My anger is gone now and all I feel is sadness that my sisters missed so much joy they could have had during Mother's last days.
M.
Carolyn Hax's column runs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.