CLEVELAND, Oh - I’m close to my brother. He’s a thoughtful person and often invites me to dine with his family. I enjoy my brother’s company. But his wife and daughters are another story. His wife is always bragging. His daughters are constantly bickering and using foul language. One of them doesn’t like me and makes it known through various snubs. I don’t enjoy these family encounters. I ignore the uncomfortable situation during the holidays when a larger group makes the behavior less noticeable. Am I rude to turn down so many invitations?

ANSWER: It is not rude for you to turn down these invitations. However, since you are close to your brother, have a conversation with him about your feelings and the way his family makes you feel. Not everyone is observant enough to pick up on these s

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