DEAR ABBY: My mother -- who is 50 -- divorced her husband about a year ago. I fully supported her through the divorce, but now I am beginning to regret it. I feel as if I have been taking the place of my father when, at 22, I should be finding my way and exploring the world.
I hate myself for feeling this way because I love my mother. I want her to be happy, but she does not try to meet new people or make friends. I find myself staying at home so she won't be alone, and I know I'm missing out. Should I talk to my mother about this? -- DAUGHTER IN NEW YORK
DEAR DAUGHTER: Yes. Do it now, before resentment builds and you reach the point where you say something you'll regret. Do it when you are both in a relaxed mood and won't be interrupted.
Explain that you are worried about her and because she is now a free woman it's time for her to develop new interests and meet new people. Encourage her to get out, be active, join social or charitable groups, take classes -- ANYTHING but sit at home alone.
And stop making yourself so available for mother-sitting. You are young and you have a right to a life. You'll be doing both you and your mom a favor if you stop allowing her to be so emotionally dependent upon you.