Sometimes all one can do in helping another person, is listen. It may seem like a small gift but to someone who just needs to "talk", you may be their only answer, their only outlet. At times when you really want to help someone and you feel like your efforts are "falling upon deaf ears", you have to keep in mind that even if they aren't willing to accept what you have to say, they will truly appreciate in the long run, the fact that you are there and you are caring enough to just be still and listen.

I have been in that position many times myself. I get frustrated and even a little upset that my words are just going "in one ear and out the other." But in reality a little bit of your words may be sinking in and it will just take time for them to digest what you are saying. That's why you have to keep remembering, reminding yourself that you haven't failed.

It's not that their problems are impossible or really easy to solve, because sometimes when someone is feeling really down or angry, they just aren't able to let someone help them or give any suggestions, they just need to vent. That is why it can really be frustrating and you may start to feel a little resentment, even towards a friend. But you're not alone and you have to keep in mind that you must stay positive. That's the secret to being strong for another person. I don't mean be chipper and bubbly, but smile and just try to remind them that you are there for them.

It's also perfectly normal to sometimes not want to listen to someone. But it doesn't make you a bad person. Everyone has their limits and there may be a day you just need an ear yourself. So, never feel guilty. Also, you have every right to your own time and space and just because someone else is sad, it doesn't mean you can't experience your own happiness. Never feel guilty because you're happy.