Q: Do you have any advice for coming alongside loved ones in difficult situations? A good friend was recently widowed, and my cousin was just diagnosed with a terminal illness. I want to encourage them but feel awkward about what to say. Graeme: You heart is clearly in the right […]

Q: I’ve noticed that many – most? – people seem to have lost the ability to apologise when they say or do something rude or even offensive. Whatever happened to common courtesy? I’d be interested to hear what you think. Graeme: Two of the hardest words in the English language […]

Q: My father walked out on our family when I was a little kid. Now that I’m an adult I could really use his input — but he’s not here for me. How can I get past this pain? Graeme: First of all, if your mother is available I’d suggest […]

Q: Can you help me with an awkward situation involving an extended family member? Recently this person harshly disagreed with something I posted on social media, and I confess I didn’t respond well. The (unfortunately) public dispute has escalated into critical private messages and even some caustic texts. What do […]

Q: I struggle with anxiety. How do I keep it from affecting my parenting and interactions with my family? Graeme: Anxiety is not easy to manage. It tends to spill into your day. I love this question because you’re recognising the negative impact anxiety inside you can have on others […]

Q: My husband and I recently moved to a new city. As we make new friends we wonder how much of our personal story to share. We experienced significant marital issues and eventually divorced, but later reconciled and have remarried. Our old friends knew everything; is there any reason to […]

Q: At a recent family gathering I felt overshadowed and inadequate around other women. I feel like a complete failure because my sisters and female cousins all have satisfying careers – but I’m just a mom. How do I know I’m not wasting my life? Graeme: I’ve noticed that mothers […]

Q: My husband and I have “filet mignon tastes,” although our current incomes are more on the “hamburger” level. We both work full-time and are trying to pay off debt while looking for better jobs. It’s exhausting – do you have any ideas? Graeme: I think your scenario is pretty […]

Q: My adult daughter is 35 years old; I haven’t spoken with her since she was 17. I definitely wasn’t the best father, but I’ve made positive changes in recent years. I long for our relationship to be restored. Should I reach out to her or wait for her to […]

Q: What can I do to stop my young child’s temper tantrums? Graeme: Tantrums can be exhausting, but very informative. It is not uncommon for young kids to struggle with managing their overwhelming feelings of anger, frustration, and disappointment. But there is always something behind the thoughts and emotions. Here […]