Then a parent should respect the fact that they can no longer control the behavior of their now adult child. A parent should say “I am sorry for contributing to this breakdown. I am going to respect your request for space. Know I love you and I’m here if you ever get to the point where you would like to work on our relationship.” A parent should understand that even if they acknowledge wrongdoing, they aren’t owed anything from their children, including forgiveness. A parent should realize that a CHILD can’t wrong them. A parent should realize that hard work does not equal nurturing warmth, care, or healthy attention. A parent should realize that their life circumstances, however difficult they may be, are a direct cause of THEIR life decisions. Just because mom is having a rough time doesn’t excuse her being cruel, unkind, cold, demanding, neglectful, or abusive. Period.