FAMILY MATTERS:
Hard call: When to intervene with friend
___At the grocery store, I ran into a longtime friend from Sunday School. While we were at the checkout counter, I noticed she had a hard time writing her check. She finally asked the clerk to fill out all the check but the signature. Should I say something to her son who lives near me?
| |
MARY STEPHENS
Vice President
Buckner Retirement Services, Dallas
|
___It is hard to determine what to do in the situation you describe. You don't want to over-react, but you also want to see your friend protected.
___Since you see your friend at church, you might consider other instances in which you have observed her behavior. If this is an isolated incident, it may not be as important to consider further action at this time.
___However, if you notice she is forgetful or confused in familiar surroundings, that could indicate she has short-term memory problems or other issues that may need to be addressed.
___Several other factors could contribute to her behavior:
___ Medications.
___ Physical conditions such as hearing or vision limitations.
___ Distractions such as several people waiting in the checkout line creating a stressful environment for her.
___Rather than contacting the son, it might be more appropriate to speak to your friend about what you observed. Express your concerns regarding her request that someone fill out her check. Observing her reactions to your concerns and how she responds will help you decide your next course of action.
___However, if you believe this is a pattern of behavior, a call to her son might be a good idea. When speaking to the son, it is important that you relay what you observed. Then he can take whatever action he deems appropriate. I would suggest that you not ask a lot of questions of him. He might be uncomfortable speaking about personal information or what he may know or have observed with his mother.
___Also, speak to the store manager. Since a business assumes risk in allowing employees to complete checks for individuals, the store may have a policy regarding assistance with check writing. It is likely the manager would appreciate knowing that this occurred.
___Your concern shows that you are following the admonition described in the words of a familiar Sunday School song, "A friend loveth at all times, when things are good or bad." By helping another when it is appropriate, you will make our world a better place.
The Baptist Standard
News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.
Contents/ Masthead / Why We're Here / Links / Archive / E-mail us/ SUBSCRIBE!/ Signup for FirstLook
|