Someone I care about looked troubled. I asked what was wrong. She shared with me that her grandchild had said that she, the grandchild, hesitated to introduce her new boyfriend to my friend because she, the grandmother, was "crazy." This friend had struggled with addictions for many years and her behavior had been out of bounds during that time. However she has been in recovery for many years and the grandchild has not experienced any of the addictive behavior.
What to do? Talk with the family member who clearly tells the old stories? Talk with the grand daughter about the comment? Let it go?
I encouraged her to talk with the grand daughter. Ask if she was kidding or serious. Ask how she experiences my friend. Listen!!! Share how much she loves the grand daughter and wants a relationship built on their time together.
Generally we don't do well when we stuff our feelings. It takes courage and grace to work through old issues and pain. It feels like a risk to address the issues. All we can do is express our feelings, regrets and desire for new life and new relationships.
We pray for grace and for the Spirit to be with us.
Blessings-Penny
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