In the journey of parenthood, there comes a time when we must seek help to navigate the myriad responsibilities that accompany raising children. For some, this help comes in the form of an elderly father stepping in to care for his grandchildren. While this arrangement can be a blessing, it can also bring with it a quiet, lingering guilt—an inner conflict between gratitude for the help and the fear that we may be asking too much of someone who has already given so much.

In the teachings of the Catholic faith, the role of a man as a provider is deeply honored. We are called to care for our families, to work diligently, and to ensure that those entrusted to us are secure and well-nourished. However, in fulfilling this God-given duty, we must also remember the words of Christ: "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly" (John 10:10). The challenge lies in balancing our responsibility as providers with the call to live a life of joy, rooted in our relationship with God and our loved ones

Growing up, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wasn’t my father’s favorite. My brother seemed to hold that place in his heart—the one who could do no wrong, who was always showered with praise and attention. Meanwhile, I often felt like I was living in his shadow, striving to be noticed, to be appreciated, but always falling short. It wasn’t until I came across the parable of the Prodigal Son that I found a story that echoed my own feelings—the story of the older brother, who wrestled with jealousy and bitterness as he watched his father lavish love on his wayward sibling.