Dear Annie: Thousands of grandparents and extended family members are stepping in to raise children in today’s world, often due to parents struggling with substance abuse. While many of us take on this responsibility out of love and necessity, it comes with its own set of emotional challenges. As one of those grandparents, I’ve had to put my retirement plans on hold, which sometimes leaves me feeling angry, resentful and overwhelmed. This wasn’t the life I had envisioned for myself at this stage, and I struggle with the loss of my own plans and freedoms. At the same time, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to care for my granddaughter. I love her beyond words and would do anything for her, but the weight of this responsibility and the sacrifices I’ve had to make can be emotionally draining. How can I manage the frustration, grief and occasional resentment that flare up while still being the stable, loving presence my granddaughter needs? I want to embrace this role fully, but I also need to find a way to cope with my own feelings in a healthy way. -- Mixed Emotions Dear Mixed: First, let me acknowledge the incredible love and dedication you are showing by stepping up for your granddaughter. Raising a child when you expected to be entering a season of rest and freedom is no small task, and the emotions you’re feeling -- love, gratitude, frustration, resentment -- are all completely valid. You are not alone in this experience. Many grandparents find themselves in similar situations, balancing deep devotion to their grandchildren with the grief of a life they had planned but had to set aside. The most important thing to remember is that feeling frustrated or resentful at times does not make you a bad grandparent; it makes you a human being. View prior ‘Dear Annie’ columns “How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology -- featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation -- is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM