When Helping Hurts: A Grandmother’s Lesson in Boundaries, Love, and Letting Go

During those early months, I didn’t realize how much I needed to feel appreciated. I wasn’t asking for grand gestures. But a thank-you, a word of kindness, or a little note would have meant more than she knew.

I realize now that when we’re all running on empty—new parents, grandparents, everyone—it’s easy to forget to fill each other’s cups.

Since our talk, we’ve both made small efforts. She checks in more. I speak up when I need a break. We don’t dance around each other anymore, trying to guess what the other person is feeling.

We talk. Honestly. Gently.

And that has made all the difference.

The Quiet Work of Letting Go

Letting go of control doesn’t mean letting go of love.

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