Ever have this kind of situation?

[LynzM]

I'm friends with the couple who live upstairs from me. Individually, I'm good friends with each of them, and they both talk to me a decent bit about their own issues and the issues in their marriage. I can really see both sides. But I wind up feeling really stuck because I cannot see how to help them reconcile the issues - their perceptions are so at odds. It's a moderately uncomfortable spot to be in... they are both nice to me, but mean to each other, making it uncomfortable for me to spend time with them together, fairly often. :(

Add to that, the fact that they are both dealing with chronic illnesses (pain and PTSD) that change how people would 'normally' behave, anyway.

What would you do? I value both of their friendships, but I don't know what to do, anymore.

[LynzM]

1. Any takers in the dinnertime crowd?

I feel so in over my head. I need an instant degree in couples counseling, oy.

[billyskank]

2. I'm so, so sorry to hear this.

I don't think there's anything you can do. I know what it's like to be pulled in different directions by people at odds with each other.

:hug:

[NV Whino]

3. i think you are doing what you need to do

or what they need you to do. You are acting as a sounding board. You can't solve their problems, but you can listen, which may help them to solve their own problems.