How do I weigh my needs against others'?

[stellatum]

Does Christian charity require me to sacrifice my small needs for the sake of fulfilling the grave needs of others? Or does prudence forbid it?

I am a busy mother, but my household is very stable and runs pretty smoothly. I have a friend who is constantly in a state of crisis and has no help but me. What do the Catholic spiritual traditions advise about how to balance my small but legitimate needs (like rest, and occasional leisure) against the pressing needs of my friend? And what about balancing my small duties to my family (spending time with my children, cooking a decent dinner, etc.) against her extremely pressing needs (a babysitter so she can see a doctor)?

Do you have any reading suggestions?

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

What is the context here? How much help does she need and how often? This is a matter of common sense. Certainly, you are not obliged to neglect your family to sustain hers. Do what you can.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.