Shall I say no to protect my mum?
Recently I was contacted by a woman who is my half-sister. Turns out my late dad had an affair – something my mum hasn’t a clue about. It would destroy her. I want to meet this woman, but should I say no to avoid hurting my mum? Emma, Bristol
YES Pick Me Up! reader Laura from Kent says:
You have no connection to this stranger apart from DNA – and yet you have a relationship with your mum that could seriously be put at risk by bringing your half sister into your life. Why hurt your mum by telling her the marriage to your dad was a lie? You admit it would destroy her and whether you like it or not, people do shoot the messenger. I would steer clear and be happy with the family you already have.
NO Pick Me Up! reader Tara from Norfolk says:
It’s not your half-sister’s fault that your dad was unfaithful to your mum, and it’s probably taken a lot of courage for her to reach out and contact you this way. The least you can do is arrange a meeting so she doesn’t feel abandoned again. You won’t know what she’s been through until you meet her. For now, there’s no need to mention it to your mum, but in time, you need to. She’ll love you no matter what. It’s what us mums do.