My two cents: You can pick your friends but not your relatives.

I have a theory that you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to be the happiest you can be. Therefore, you do not need to force yourself to be around people you do not feel good around and who upset you.

I have a sister who is troubled beyond the normal. We talk once a year, at best, and we lead our lives that way. We love each other and in fact she is my beneficiary on some of my assets, but we do not lead the same kind of life and have little in common. She does not add to my life...in fact, after talking with her, and discussing her problems, over and over again, I feel exhausted, depressed, upset, frustrated, doomed, you name it. I cannot help her - she has to want to do it. I can only help myself and those who want help.

All that said, dear soul, enjoy your life and exclude those who make you so unhappy. Surround yourself with those who make you happy.

Life can be short.....play hard...and love softly!