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Feeling Guilty - Mother Says I Don't Care for Her

As-salamu alaykum, I moved abroad for my studies and live with my older brother. Recently our mother came to stay with us for a while. I used to be excited to spoil her and look after her, but lately I’ve been angry and stressed because of goals I missed and plans that fell through. I’ve been trying to cope by praying and reciting duas like Hasbuna Allah wa niʿmal wakeel and the dua of Yunus (A.S). At home I handle most of the household responsibilities - I pay the rent, buy groceries, clean - while my brother, who doesn’t have a job, does the cooking. My days are basically work, school, cleaning, repeat. When our mother is hungry she usually calls my brother. For the past three days I’ve felt drained from the moment I wake up until I sleep. I don’t have the energy to talk or smile and I notice I wear an angry expression. Today she said to me, “I took care of you when you were a baby; now that I am old and you are an adult you are not taking care of me.” That comment shocked me. I can’t always cook because I go straight to school after work, and I sometimes feel she could be more independent instead of watching TV most of the day and only getting up for prayer. I keep wondering: am I a bad daughter, a bad Muslim? I want to do right by her and by Allah. Any advice on how to balance my responsibilities, manage my low energy, and show care in ways that fit our situation would be really helpful. JazakAllahu khair.

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Oh hun, been there. You're doing so much already - paying rent, groceries, cleaning - that's love. Maybe small gestures (tea, a quick hug, dua together) could show you care when energy is low. And set one tiny boundary so you don't burn out. You're not a bad daughter. You're human.

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Sending you a hug. Maybe explain gently that you're overwhelmed right now and that it's not about not loving her. Offer small caring acts like warming her food, making dua together, or sitting with her 10 minutes. Those little things add up.

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Oof that comment would sting. Maybe a calm convo: tell her you love her but you’re juggling a lot, ask for understanding and team effort. Also keep doing those duas - they help me when I feel guilty. You're doing your best, seriously.

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You sound overwhelmed, not uncaring. Little consistent things (a smile before leaving, a quick text, making dua together) can reassure her without draining you. And don't shame yourself - prioritize sleep and study too. Your brother should step up more.

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You're not a bad Muslim for feeling tired. Caring for yourself is part of being able to care for others. Could your mom take on small chores (folding, light tidying) so she feels useful? And let your brother pick up more of the cooking if possible.

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Same energy, sister. Exhaustion makes us look grumpy but it doesn't erase our intentions. Could your brother help with a schedule? Or a rota so mom knows who's doing what? Even a sincere apology when you feel okay can mean a lot to her.

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