When Roles Reverse: Caring for Aging Parents Through a Mindful Lens

What do we owe our parents when they can no longer care for themselves?

In this episode of What Would Buddha Do?, I explore a deeply personal and often painful question: What are our responsibilities to aging parents, especially when the relationship has been difficult?

Drawing from Buddhist teachings—and reflections from the 17th Karmapa—I share:
 🌿 How Buddhism views the “debt” we owe to our parents
 🌿 The meaning of reciprocal responsibility and compassion
 🌿 How to honor familial duty while setting healthy boundaries

If you're struggling to navigate complex family dynamics with aging parents, this conversation offers ancient wisdom, modern insights, and personal reflections to help you move forward with clarity and peace.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:46 Listener's Dilemma: Caring for an Ailing Parent
02:06 Buddhist Teachings on Parental Debt
05:21 Reciprocal Responsibilities in Buddhism
07:12 Modern Reflections on Parental Relationships
07:45 Personal Insights and Conclusion