Katlego Sekhu

A listener shares that her mother, who is in her sixties, was retrenched in 2022 and spent all her pension money recklessly. Instead of saving and using it wisely, she splurged. Fast forward to 2024; she has nothing left and now expects the listener, her daughter, to pick up the pieces. Seeking advice from “The Best T in the City,” the listener wonders if she’s being selfish for not wanting to help her mother out.
“My mother was retrenched in 2022, and she spent the whole of 2023 blowing her money. Despite my warnings to not splurge, she continued to buy unnecessary things and go out frequently. I even asked her to help me pay off a loan I had taken to extend the house for her, but she kept giving me the runaround, and eventually, I gave up. Now that her money has run out, I am expected to pick up the pieces.
“My mother didn’t pay off the house or any debts she had. She is now stressed and expects me to handle the consequences. I suggested selling the house in the suburbs and moving back home, but she refuses to listen.
“She’s in her sixties, and I am her only daughter. I blame my dad for spoiling her. Why should I be left with the stress of cleaning up after her? She made her choices, so she should face the consequences. Am I being too hard on my mom?”
Anonymous
Listen to the full discussion on The Best T in the City podcast.



