I find a lot of strength in solitude. I have relationships with those I want to have relationships with. I think you're absolutely right. I reason that I have enough troubles in my life that I can't do anything about, why ask for more?
As for your brother, I think he believes he's in competition with you. My sister is the same way. Constantly bringing up stupid stuff in conversation in an attempt to embarass me. I also think you already have taken the first step. It's painfully obvious that your brother has a bit of growing up to do (I mean, seriously, ratting on you to your parents) and isn't likely to provide his half of a fulfilling relationship anytime soon.
As for similiar experiences, I have one with my father. I was never close to him and for 20 years felt like a flaming disappointment to the man. I extended the olive branch a few times, as I felt it was the least I could do, and didn't get much further than the first couple of phone calls. I call him on the major holidays and I think I sent him a card on his birthday.
You've tried. End of story. No hard feelings. There's no sense wasting effort on a vacuous hole of a person and feeling guilty when it doesn't work out.
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