Dear Miss Manners
My sister and her husband live in Houston, Texas, where he has a wonderful position with NASA. I truly am happy for them — they’ve built a good life together, and he’s worked hard for his success.
Still, I can’t help but feel a sting of resentment every time I visit. I’ve always believed that family should help family, and part of me can’t understand why he never tried to get me in the door at NASA too. I went to college and earned my degree, but somehow the “good career” part never quite happened. I’ve had a patchwork of jobs over the years and even do people’s taxes now just to make ends meet.
With the holidays approaching, I’ll be seeing them again, and I’m already dreading the familiar mix of pride, envy, and self-pity that creeps up when I’m around their comfortable life. How can I put these feelings aside and enjoy the visit without letting my jealousy ruin the time with my family?
Envious but Earnest in The Big Easy