Whenever I read something as powerful as this, I have to remind myself that the term "dysfunctional family" is redundant; to a great extent, they're ALL messed up. And I suppose it gets even messier when you toss alcohol into the mix.
So I get your frustration, especially when you wanted to hear from them that you're a great writer.
News flash: You may never hear that from those closest to you. (I get it.)
But know this: You *are* a great writer. Please remember that.
Absolutely there is some dysfunction in all families, right? Alcohol is poison, at least it is in my family where there's dependence.
This was very eye-opening about my desperate desire for them to tell me I'm a great writer. I feel certain now that if there is any mention of them in my writing they won't like what I have to say. Sad, but also liberating. I appreciate you, Larry, thanks for the kind words.
Your thoughts about booze remind me of a t-shirt from back in the day. The lettering reads, "Instant asshole. Just add alcohol."
Indeed...
I have two siblings. One enthusiastically supports my writing, commenting and encouraging me to write more; the other wants nothing to do with anything I publish (as well as any kind of "win," minuscule or massive, over the past 35 years).
Charlie, family stuff is always so tricky and delicate and tangled. There's no clean way through it. And I think you're onto something about wanting these conversations in the open, during the day, when everyone's present. Alcohol can become such an easy substitute for actually talking. Wishing you well as you navigate all of this.
Ugh I’m sorry this is how they reacted :( I’m hoping they come around. Are you going to publish that essay? Are you going to share your Substack with them?
Thanks, Liz. I am going to publish that essay. Not sure when... waiting to hear the results of the essay competition before I decide how to move forward with it! I'll share my Substack with them eventually, or just my name, Charlie Bleecker, and they can figure it out if they want. But this whole experience has made me less eager to share.
Whenever I read something as powerful as this, I have to remind myself that the term "dysfunctional family" is redundant; to a great extent, they're ALL messed up. And I suppose it gets even messier when you toss alcohol into the mix.
So I get your frustration, especially when you wanted to hear from them that you're a great writer.
News flash: You may never hear that from those closest to you. (I get it.)
But know this: You *are* a great writer. Please remember that.
Absolutely there is some dysfunction in all families, right? Alcohol is poison, at least it is in my family where there's dependence.
This was very eye-opening about my desperate desire for them to tell me I'm a great writer. I feel certain now that if there is any mention of them in my writing they won't like what I have to say. Sad, but also liberating. I appreciate you, Larry, thanks for the kind words.
Your thoughts about booze remind me of a t-shirt from back in the day. The lettering reads, "Instant asshole. Just add alcohol."
Indeed...
I have two siblings. One enthusiastically supports my writing, commenting and encouraging me to write more; the other wants nothing to do with anything I publish (as well as any kind of "win," minuscule or massive, over the past 35 years).
Bottom line: Keep writing! It's good stuff. :)
What Larry Said!^^^
Thanks, Emma! :)
Charlie, family stuff is always so tricky and delicate and tangled. There's no clean way through it. And I think you're onto something about wanting these conversations in the open, during the day, when everyone's present. Alcohol can become such an easy substitute for actually talking. Wishing you well as you navigate all of this.
Thanks, Rachel. Absolutely a big mess. Alcohol never helps.
Ugh I’m sorry this is how they reacted :( I’m hoping they come around. Are you going to publish that essay? Are you going to share your Substack with them?
Thanks, Liz. I am going to publish that essay. Not sure when... waiting to hear the results of the essay competition before I decide how to move forward with it! I'll share my Substack with them eventually, or just my name, Charlie Bleecker, and they can figure it out if they want. But this whole experience has made me less eager to share.
I just am not sure what to say, except a compassionate, “umph.” This is a tough one, Charlie. Hugs and hugs. Love you
Love you! There are always silver linings to these things. I'm still processing what they are.
Ugh...all the things said and unsaid. Great piece!
"Ugh" is exactly how I feel, Annabel. Thanks for commenting!