Relationships with Relatives: How to Deal with Misunderstandings

Common Conflicts Between Generations

Misunderstandings between relatives and across generations are a common problem.
Often, family members treat you not as an independent person but as a “child” who has no right to think, dream, or express an opinion.

When Relatives Take Credit for Your Achievements

One of the most painful issues in relationships with relatives is when an older family member believes that all your achievements belong to them.
In my case, my relative was convinced that my success came only thanks to her prayers—even though she called me just once a year, on my birthday.
Such behavior feels unfair, as if your life is controlled by someone else’s will.

Different Views on Faith and Responsibility

I am not a Christian because my logic tells me that all life originates from a pair, not from a single male principle.
In the universe, with countless planets, each world probably has its own understanding of the Creator. No one knows who is truly right.
The main problem is that belief in prayer alone can remove personal responsibility for one’s own choices.
If you don’t admit mistakes, you cannot learn from them.

The Struggles of Personal Growth

In reality, I have to:

• study hard,
  
  

• learn a foreign language,
  
  

• master over a dozen programs,
  
  

• build a strong portfolio,
  
  

• search for clients,
  
  

• invest in books and vitamins.
  
  

Success doesn’t come “from above”—it comes from daily work and persistence.

Why Blind Faith Without Action Is Dangerous

On the internet, you face competition, criticism, and ignoring.
No one will support you with even $1 if they don’t trust you personally.
Waiting for signs from gods—whether it’s Zeus, Odin, or anyone else—means losing time and opportunities.

Failed Attempts to Build Friendship

My attempts to build friendship with this relative always ended in failure.
She saw me as a liar with no achievements, while acting like an arrogant know-it-all, “wiser than doctors.”
This left me with a heavy feeling of guilt that she constantly imposed on me.

The Pain of Guilt and the Fear of Being “Nobody”

Time passes quickly, people grow old and die.
I know I will feel guilty for not being kind enough.
But at the same time, I don’t want to lose my self-worth or feel like a “nobody” just because of her opinion.