[merylsilverburg]

Mena's situation is understandable. It's hard to be close with any of your siblings if they don't share the same views/interests or, in Mena's case, maturity to handle/listen real situations and troublesome events. And if her siblings never come to her aid at all, I wouldn't be close to them either. I understand this only because my sister and I were once not close at all. We were literally like oil and water and it was hard to get along. But, as goodman said, times passed and we grew to understand. Hopefully, Mena's situation will turn out the same one day. But, if things don't turn out the best for her then it really just makes her more independent and stronger (at least in my opinion). She has no one else to rely on except for herself which will definitely change her if it hasn't already.

Originally Posted by goodman

Well, admittedly, not everyone overcomes problems they have with their brothers or sisters. Time is not a healer of all things, i know a girl who isnt at all close to either her brother, or her parents, for that matter. And she isnt the only one, there are others. Must be miserable during holidays, which here in America are very much events that families cherish, often that is when i see my family. To be so seperated and away from your family that you dont talk to them at any time may not be sad in that persons mind, or view, but it is mine, sad indeed. There are brothers and sisters that could have just as well been born countries apart as far as how much they care for each other, which is a commentary on one or both of them. Weve worked really well in getting my folks anniversary celebration together, how sad to think bitterness/seperation wouldnt have allowed for that to come about.

I know what you mean. Whenever the holidays roll around, I always feel a bit depressed, knowing there are some people without their families or alone during that time when you're supposed to be around those you love.
But, there are some people who could care less about being with their families. And I think it depends on the situation. If you come from a real dysfunctional family, it's more understandable to be isolated from them. If my sister and I haven't bonded, I think I'd really be alone since I'm not too close to my parents. Or if you just prefer to be alone, then that's really your decision.