Hard to explain

How do you try to help a person grow?

 Now, I could say how do you raise a child?

I came in a bit late.

I get to attempt the process towards adulthood.

I look at my life,

 and I was not a child by around eleven.

I watched my friend's father die at thirteen,

 and we took him into our house while his mother tried to heal.

Might have to take the age back to nine.

 Friend died gasping,

  asthma had taken a toll.

This is starting to get grim,

 and time to switch.

The most important part is I have to be honest.

No gossamer excuses,

 giving a pleasant illusion.

I have to do something looked over.

I have to tell the truth.