Futility?

It was a bitter blow when I realised
that no human can fix another;
prevent their suffering, or take it away.

But who wouldn't try to help
when their loved one's pain settled on them,
driving them to distraction?

I muster all the positivity and love I can,
make sure they know I'm there,
send uplifting quotes, funny videos,
silly signs and messages of support.
I am trying to learn
to give them space too.

It's just that I don't want them to feel
the way that I have felt.
Perhaps it's unavoidable.
My efforts might be futile
but they're real.