I haven't spoken to hardly any members on my Dad's side for almost 17 years. For those who are keeping score, that would be since my Dad died.
Ever wonder how long I can carry a grudge? A well-deserved grudge? This would be my longest, and it's against family members. Namely, the aunts and uncles on my father's side. The cousins, I have no animosity towards. They were far too young when, as my father would say, "Shit went down".
So, imagine my mild surprise when I stumbled upon a post from a cousin on Brother's facebook page announcing that his mother (my aunt) died last summer. His father (my uncle and Dad's brother) wasn't doing so hot.
Call me a cold-hearted bitch, but I'm ambivalent. You may as well tell me a stranger died to get the same reaction. Sorry.
The cousin in question, sent me a message, demanding to know why I have the same last name as his. Only with lots of spelling and grammar errors.
"My father gave it to me" I replied. I then asked him if he knew who I was. Nope.
Funny, you're talking to my younger brother on facebook. After spelling it out to him (I'm your COUSIN), he still didn't have a clue. Whatever, dude.
So I asked him what he was up to. He tells me about the other aunts and uncles I really don't give a shit about anymore. Then, he tells me that he's been to prison...twice. He's got to be in his early 20's.
My family.
3 comments:
I have the same relationship with my family, so I get the ambivalence. I find it is hard for the Pollyannas of the world to understand where I'm coming from when I answer questions about my family's lack of presence in my life. And I know the sinking feeling in the pit of the stomach when I'm pressed to explain why I have severed those relationships and have to say, airily, how they are a bunch of theiving, drug-doing jailbirds.
Hang in there - those who understand that they can choose not to participate in the perpetuation of the white trash family drama are few and far between!
What an idiot. (Your cousin, not you)
Too bad we can't pick our families! I have an uncle a little down the line that swears he's Elvis and only dates women who are 30 years younger. I don't speak to him. If your grudge is well deserved (which I'm sure it is), then right on. Big House Cousin sure is a winner! :)
P.S. I'm a new follower!
Post a Comment