Supporting Family and Friends

“One of the most loving things you can do for another person is let them make their own mistakes, learn their own lessons and endure in the contrast of a life they don't really want. People only really change when they've hit rock bottom - sometimes the most loving thing you can do for a person is to let them and be there to help pick up the pieces. Permanent change comes from within, no one can give it to you." ~ Jackson Kiddard
 
It is sometimes easier for us to look at someone else’s life and see what they need to do or not do, than to see what we need to do in our own life.  We watch someone else spiraling out of control and just want to tell them what to do.  But, we need to realize that we are watching their world, through our eyes.  Our life and perspectives are different from theirs and we must understand we may not truly know what is best for them or their journey here on life. 
 
I have friends and family and it is difficult to watch them struggle – I don’t want them to experience pain.  But, you know what, we all experience pain.  From the major pain in my life, I have learned the biggest life lessons.  I couldn’t learn from the words or advice of others, as that was an intellectual exercise and I was only in my head.  I learned the most from actually experiencing something deeply.  Plus, the rebel in me didn’t want to be told what to do. I had to learn the difficult lessons in life from within.
 
I know that I had to learn the lessons myself and unfortunately my friends and family must learn their own lessons in their way.  I offer help and assistance as I see fit, but let them know that I am there for them with a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear.
 
Do you let friends and family make their own mistakes?
 
Do you agree or disagree with Jackson Kidders’ quote?