Hey, Polar,

I am so sorry to hear your news. Best wishes for your brother's speedy recovery.

I know what it's like to be estranged from friends and family. My father and I had a major argument about politics, and I stopped speaking to him and his sister for a year (we were ALL complicit in that foolishness.) And Bill-- the guy I played the Rainbow with-- he and I didn't speak for almost a year after a filmmaking dispute. I've seen it happen to other friends-- real estate deals gone bad, arguments over husbands, wives, and kids...

In every single instance, the people involved were incredibly relieved when the feud was over. You've made such an important first step by calling your Mom! I know you'll work through this, and I hope the stress does not put a strain on your health.

Hugs back at ya,

Catalyzt

Polar

I agree with Cat, you made the first attempt, give him time.

You need to take care that the stress does not trigger you into a flare.

sending you and your family well wishes and good thoughts

I just wanted to say that I am sorry to read this. I do wish your brother a quick and complete recovery. I also wish you both the best of luck in fixing whatever issues keep you apart....

Again, so sorry for your brothers heart attack, and terribly sorry for the loss of your sister...

sorry to hear about your brother. hope all works out well. the best you can do is make the initial step. hope your brother ecovers. christine

My younger brother had a heart attack and stroke 2 years ago. We were on speaking terms but not a good relatioship. So, at Christmas, right after the attack, our family was having a get together. We do it every year and all he ever does is complain about it. He said he couldnt come, so, we packed up and traveled 4 hours to have the get together at his house. His wife was in on it. Usually, he is a horses ass, but he actually cried. I think he thought he didnt matter and we showed him we cared. I wont say our relationship is really close, but he is trying to communicate and doesnt complain about family parties any more. When problems get in the way of any family or friend relationship, you can go with it or just be determined to work it out. Doesnt always work but remember that usually you all have some fault in the rift. I hope your brother gets well soon. It is too bad that sometimes someone has to get sick before we face the fact that we love them. Even if they are a horses ass sometimes.
Mary Ann

Sorry about your brother. I know a bit how you are feeling. My sister and I were estranged for many years...until my Mom died. We are working towards being sisters again, slowly, with boundries. I wish you the peace of mind you need and a speedy recovery for your brother. Hang in there...