In the Slate parenting column 'Care and Feeding', a reader expresses frustration about being the youngest sibling, feeling disconnected from extended family. Unlike her siblings, who enjoyed regular interactions with relatives, she was neglected during family gatherings. This led to her unfamiliarity with family members, making her mother's expectations of her to engage with relatives seem unreasonable. The reader feels that her parents' past choices have contributed to her isolation, articulating how their priorities affected family dynamics and her sense of belonging.
When I came along, my parents didn't want to spend the money anymore. They didn't facilitate any relationships between me and my extended family, so I've met these family members literally once or twice.
My mom expects me to be concerned... But she might as well be talking about my dentist or a random person on the subway.
Recently, my mom told me that a cousin was going to be in my area and asked me to show her around. I declined because I don't know this woman and don't want to awkwardly host a stranger all weekend.
My parents don’t understand that the reason all my siblings are close with these family members is not because of distance, but because my parents prioritized them.
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