I needed this today… I imagine there are so so many of us struggling with nailing this combination of strong boundaries, and nurturing, when it comes to our adult children. In my case, my kids suffered terrible trauma as children and are dealing with mental health issues in their 30s. Boundaries are not my wheelhouse but being what we need for our kids has to be equal parts boundary and compassion. It seems impossible at times, And I so appreciate this dialog around it. Thanks for being vulnerable and open with this difficult walk. When you’re dealing with issues with your spouse or friend, it’s entirely different than dealing with issues in your kids lives. We’re always parents. We always want to offer support, but not in ways that enable or handicap those we love most.

I was particularly convicted by the part about advocating for our adult children in whatever mental health care facility they find themselves. Practicing detachment in healthy ways can’t negate our obligation to advocate for those who need someone to look out for them when they’re in their most vulnerable state.