I made the mistake of helping out my 70-year-old neighbor. She has a car, but her license expired a few years ago. She has failed the driving test over and over. She is on a small, fixed income.
So, of course, I offered to chauffer her around to doctor appointments, the gym and exercise classes, senior center activities and shopping. We’re talking four days a week! She never offers cash for gas or a lunch out. This went on for six months.
When I’d had enough, I kindly let her know that I was unavailable, that I couldn’t afford using so much gasoline, and sometimes I just wanted to stay in and be left alone. I will not repeat what came out of her mouth in response.
Why do I feel so darned guilty and what do I do to fix this?
Used Up in Yucaipa
Dear Used Up,
Because my faithful MacBook has currently locked me and the cursor out, I am answering your question via email to my lovely editor, which is difficult for me.
My first tidbit of advice: Do not pee where you eat. It’s not fun having to hide from your neighbor.
Secondly, no good deed goes unpunished. Heavens, everyone already knows that one!
Sidney
Send your questions for Sidney to Sidney@thealpinemountaineer.com or by snail mail to Dear Sidney, The Alpine Mountaineer, P.O. Box 4572, Crestline, CA 92325.
This advice is intended for entertainment purposes only. No animals were harmed in the writing of this column.
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