Sick parent -- should I go home?

[divea]

As I said, maybe I’m a coward not to discuss such things more frankly, but at least I recognize the inevitable reality, so we visit them about twice a year and call them weekly, which my daughter loves and my folks are clearly thrilled with each time.

I don’t think you are a coward. I think it saddens you to even THINK of their passing, and wouldn’t want to talk about it. Me thinks its a guy trait. You guys are just knees and knuckly awkward about talking about sentimental things, especially if you have to broach the topic. Parents too are comfortable talking to their daughters instead of sons. I could be wrong though.