Family gathering didn't go well.

[judy]

I'm sorry your brother ruined your evening Janet, and that your brother and his family have such problems, Diana. I think every family has huge issues. You're all
on the same page as I am - don't see people who make you miserable.

Like Dr. Phil says, "Life's too short!"

[Marilyn]

Janet, so sad that your evening was spoiled like this. We have awesome children and just make our own family with them and their friends, and our church family, of course. Both of us have issues with our siblings so we just don't associate with them any more. It's sad, but sometimes you just have to cut the ties and restart the family. We are much happier this way, believe me. It's not like we haven't tried to get along, but on hubby's side they have issues like Diana has described with her brother and we just don't need to be around them.

Life is too short!! and too important.

[Janet]

Thanks all, I appreciate the support. I was feeling a little guilty, because after all he is my brother, but I just hate feeling like I'm walking on egg shells everytime I'm around him. One minute he can be so sweet and funny and then the next he is absolutley horrible and mean. I will no longer feel guilty. I need to protect the happiness and well being of my family and I just won't subject myself to that kind of emotional rollercoaster. I'm done.

[AngieDoogles]

Originally Posted by Janet

Thanks all, I appreciate the support. I was feeling a little guilty, because after all he is my brother, but I just hate feeling like I'm walking on egg shells everytime I'm around him. One minute he can be so sweet and funny and then the next he is absolutley horrible and mean. I will no longer feel guilty. I need to protect the happiness and well being of my family and I just won't subject myself to that kind of emotional rollercoaster. I'm done.

Hugs Janet! These decisions are hard, but sometimes we have to do the right thing by distancing ourselves from those who cause us pain. I've never had to do this with family, but I have with friends and it's one of the most difficult things I've had to do.

Just remember, it will help you to feel better, which will in turn make your whole family happier and less stressed.

[Janet]

You're right Angie and I need less stress. It is very hard distancing one's self from family or friends. Part of the reason I would get so anxious about the holidays and my side of the family getting together is because of him. So, I will celebrate holidays with those I want to be around that way not only I, but my husband and son can enjoy them more too.

[AngieDoogles]

Originally Posted by Janet

You're right Angie and I need less stress. It is very hard distancing one's self from family or friends. Part of the reason I would get so anxious about the holidays and my side of the family getting together is because of him. So, I will celebrate holidays with those I want to be around that way not only I, but my husband and son can enjoy them more too.

Good for you! I hope you enjoy your new stress-free holidays!

[Tink]

Janet, I think sometimes we need to pick out battles.
If we've had the same one repeatedly and nothing changes by it, there's a point where we need to just say "enough" and be done with it.

Stress isn't healthy... and it's sure no fun!