I realize this is a difficult period
in your life;
that you have a lot on your mind,
and you've been under stress. . .

I'm sorry for the times when I responded
with impatience when what you needed
was my understanding;
for acting indifferent to your concerns
when you needed my support;
and for focusing sometimes
on how little I was getting. . .
rather than on how much I could give

Please understand that I do appreciate
the difficulties you're experiencing.
I know that you need time to yourself
to resolve them,
and I intend to stand by you
through these rough days as readily
as I've shared in your good days.

I don't want to add to the pressures
you already feel
by demanding more of your time
and energy than you have to give. . .

So I just want you to know
that I'll be here
whenever you want to see me;
and I'll understand
if you just need to be alone.