We have learned over the years to take a very cautious approach to the problems of others.
Not, may we add, because of any reluctance on our part to help.
But rather because if one becomes too involved, even with best intentions, it can backfire.
Some people are not shy in asking for help – whether it be financial, emotional, physical or otherwise.
And it can be difficult to say No.
Nevertheless, we take the time to review the request carefully before committing.
We are generally happy to provide physical support, though any financial support must be considered closely on its merits given these types of requests (particularly if they come from family!) rarely come with a guarantee of repayment or any sort of contractual protection.
If the request is for emotional support on, e.g., a relationship issue someone is having, we especially steer well clear, as this is laden with risk.
There are 2 sides to every story and you generally only receive 1 in these circumstances, so are helpless to reach a genuinely balanced conclusion.
Added to this, there are trained mediators out there who have studied for months if not years to equip them with the tools needed to navigate the minefield which can be relationship issues others are facing.
And finally, unlike a Police Chief, we have no powers to impose a solution in any event.
So in sum total, in these circumstances we respectfully offer to be ‘good listeners’, but neither arbiters nor the furnishers of opinions or advice.
LOL, LouLoU&MikeyM™ 🙂💛💚💙💢 xxxxx