Daughter wants to give up?

EmmyBet
Wed, 23 Jun 2010 19:47:48 +0000

I think it’s very difficult for kids who are naturally inclined to be channeled and maybe kind of linear (which has pros and cons) to encounter their first experience of the mystery of how life really goes. I am sad that your D is so unsettled and sad about it, but I would guess that in the long run she will be better off. For some people they plow straight through HS, college, grad school, marriage, kids, career - and this kind of opportunity to take a good look at themselves and their lives hits when they no longer have a youthful ability to re-imagine and regroup.

My D1, who is the linear type, has finally (although not so intensely) had a few bumps that have given her the chance to be angry, sad and frustrated, and pick herself back up and keep moving. It’s been good for her to have to say, “I’m confused.” Until then, she thought it was just an equation of work hard=get what you want. Now she is a lot more open-minded (and a little less judgmental of others, too). I can still see some of the comparing that gets her in trouble, but I presume life will continue to throw her curves now in then that can keep that in check.

Best wishes to your D - I’m sure she’ll regain perspective. I hope if she feels depressed and anxious enough that she will reconsider counseling.