I am coming to terms with some relationships that will only ever be on the other people's terms and TBH there is not much in it for me or my family. I had hoped that things could change and that after making a big effort that other people would too. Unfortunately I have decided to include and involve people but not to expect them to behave/act the way I wish they would.
This has made me more appreciative of the people who do care and love me and my family. So I guess I am trying to make sure that I invest in and help out the people I have to lean on rather than over invest in people who simply do not care. It has been a tough journey and I often waiver in my resolve to avoid letting these people impact me. DH often says 'no expectation, no disappointment' but I find that quite sad. Instead we value and hang out with those that love and care for us, I have left the door open but no longer hope that the relationship will improve. It is what it is and that is more about them than me. It has been a very painful and difficult process tho.
xxxxx