I'm an only child and I disagree. I'm perfectly capable of finding my own confidants (i.e. they are called "friends"). And, believe it or not, I am not particularly self-centered or selfish. And I expect my ailing parents (all 3 of them) to make their own decisions as long as possible because they are capable…

I get really annoyed when people ask when we are going to have baby #2. So I break out the chemo card, as in because of my husband's chemo, it would be too dangerous. In a way, I get a sick thrill out of this because it makes people feel like assholes. I think I must be evil or horrible.

Thank you, but I don't see it as honorable. They took care of me and they provided for me and they were good to me, so of course I'm going to return the favor. It's my way of saying thanks for putting up with me (which might be the real reason I'm an only— I might have been enough of a handful to scar them for…

"My mom does fret over leaving me as the sole individual responsible for their care when they age, but I'm so grateful for all they've done for me that I will consider it an absolute privilege to take care of my parents in their twilight."