Zara,
I truly admire your maturity. You are wise beyond your years. I also get very frustrated by certain people who beg for advice then don't take it. There have been situations where I have gone out of my way to offer assistance in placing a cat that needs rehoming, or, trying to get them help in their area with the many contacts I have.I've gotten my hopes up about taking in a new kitty, only to have my hopes dashed by lies and insincerity. It is people like that I will never trust again, and will not respond to any of their future posts.
Summing up what Cataholic posted, I can too say, "Been there, done that." Growing up, my father always told me that while I may not understand why he does the things he does NOW, I'd understand when I had kids of my own. I'll be damned, he was right! Would I want to be a kid in this day and age? Heck no. It was hard enough for me to get through MY childhood in the 50's and 60's.
I only wish that some of the other "younger PTers" had the maturity and wisdom that you have, Zara. I want you to know that it's a real pleasure having you around here.