I live with my husband, Kazunari, and our three-year-old daughter, Rin. I’ve always been really close to my brother Kouji, who’s ten years older than me. He’s married to Keiko and now has three girls—Ayane in 8th grade, Kaori in 4th grade, and little six-year-old Madoka.
Whenever we visit their place, Rin, who’s an only child, has the best time playing with her older cousins. She lights up around them. But no matter how often I invite my brother’s family to hang out, they cancel on us at the last minute almost every time. Even so, I decided to stop by and drop off some treats… only to find out the “she’s sick so we can’t play” excuse was a lie. Seeing how cold Keiko always is, I couldn’t help thinking she might be the real source of all the trouble.
It honestly shocks me how little they seem to understand how much effort I’ve put into keeping a good relationship with them. Inviting them over, making time to visit, being considerate… None of that is “normal” or automatic. They should realize it only happens because I’m the one making the effort.
I’m sure my mom will talk to my brother in just the right way. My parents are worried too. And if Keiko is willing to change her attitude, I’m more than ready to forgive what’s happened so far and keep building a good relationship from here on out.