Sandwich, anyone?
It's become apparent I’m a member of the sandwich generation. Raising a child while looking after my parents.
My 4-year-old doesn't really demand much. Aside from food, school-related expenses eat most of my budget for him. And healthcare, of course. And toys and games. There's the occasional shopping for clothing. Did I mention toys and games?
My parents had relied on me for most things, from anything online to money stuff to deleting posts on Facebook. My son depends on me on, well, everything.
I'm not complaining though. It's just that, there were times when it's hard to divide my limited resources: time, energy and money. Times when I felt burned out as if I had nothing left to offer. So I really have to prioritize, take care of my health and be wise financially.
I love being able to help, and I don't plan on stopping, as long as I'm capable. Despite the challenges, I cherish the chance to support my family.
It's a delicate balance, but it's also a privilege to be part of both my parents' and my child's lives. Perhaps, members of the sandwich generation feel the same.
We feel that we have an obligation, to the ones before us and to those that came after. And that there’s nothing we can do for now, but to just keep moving forward.