Snow White Doesn't Live Here Anymore

Laughter, Pleasure, Malice, and the Pursuit of Adult Fun

Gina Barreca, Ph.D. is Professor of English at UConn, and author of It's Not That I'm Bitter: How I Learned to Stop Worrying About Visible Panty Lines and Conquered the World. See full bio

June 17, 2009, Aging

Comments on "Is Possible to be a Good Daughter?"

Is Possible to be a Good Daughter?

By Regina Barreca, Ph.D. on June 17, 2009 in Snow White Doesn't Live Here Anymore

You know what it's like dealing with a loved one who's very sick?

It's like taking somebody to the train station where you're supposed to drop them off, say your fondest farewells, and wave goodbye from the platform as they head out on the next part of their journey.

You think you know what's going to happen.

But you don't. Read More

A very tender discussion

Submitted by Anonymous on June 17, 2009 - 10:46am.

of a terribly difficult subject. My parents have both passed and the image of
waiting at a train station is a sad but true one.

....................

Submitted by David Petropoulos on June 17, 2009 - 5:32pm.

Thanks for the thoughts. Sincerely,David

brilliant

Submitted by Ines on June 21, 2009 - 3:28pm.

The train station is a brilliant analogy - and there is no "right" way to do it. I believe, awkward or not, just being there is of value.

I understand exactly what you

Submitted by Anonymous on July 10, 2009 - 7:04pm.

I understand exactly what you mean. I lost my dad just about 2 months ago. He had a multitude of health problems which put him in the hospital and, finally, a nursing home. He lived in another state so when he took a turn for the worse I went to be with him and rode that roller coaster with him for six months until he finally succumbed. I've been doing a lot of reflecting since then. I know I did everything I could for him although sometimes it feels like it wasn't enough. I regret the choices I made in my earlier in my life that made it impossible for me to do more for him.

I just have to remind myself that I did the best I could and hopefully that was enough for him.