Uncomfortable Truths (Problems Money Can't Solve)

Whenever I needed you during my formative years, you were always absent. And on the rare occasion that you were present, it was only in the physical sense. Even if you hypothetically focused your attention on what actually mattered, you didn't know how to provide what I needed anyway. As for the uncomfortable truths surrounding my childhood/adolescence/young adulthood, you never sought to uncover them. As for the few truths you discovered, you did so inadvertently. And you made no effort to discuss, much less understand them. Instead of initiating or engaging in the important conversations, you did what felt easy and avoided them altogether. Rather than attempting to decipher WHY I lived such a solitary life and searching for answers to solve problems involving depression, you chose to spend money on a dilemma unrelated to finances.

Fortunately, growing up alone forces you to develop an immense amount of strength and resolve rather quickly. On the other hand, growing up too fast (the way I did) deprives you of critical experiences during developmental years. I was intelligent, mature, and responsible at a relatively young age. However, being wise beyond your years isn't all sunshine and rainbows. For the same reasons I acquired positive attributes, I simultaneously lacked companionship and communication. Without guidance, structure, or affection, I was left to my own devices. Without the existence of a nuclear family to help, I invented solutions to various problems on my own. I believe there is so much more to raising children than providing financially; proper parenting involves inquiring, listening, and (most importantly) caring. These aspects are crucial to producing a healthy member of society. Now that I'm much older and I have a profound understanding of these concepts, I spend my days trying to bury feelings of regret and resentment.