Yeah, I've heard those. And a lot of others. But distance makes the heart grow more acclimated.

There's still hope that, at some point, they won't be able to deny things to themselves anymore. (Especially once they get into their late 60s.) Then they'll want to ask for forgiveness and cry on your shoulder. It's up to you whether or not you provide them with that shoulder, but it can have its rewards.

I recently spent the best time I've ever had with my mom, letting her cry it out and then spoiling ourselves with fun times and good food to make up for it.