What do you say to a relative that you haven't seen in over 35 years?

[beancounter]

So, my mother emailed me yesterday because my step sister from my mom's second marriage got in contact with her. She sent me a friend request and I accepted it. The last time I saw her, I was 10 and she was 15.

So now she wants to "catch up" We really never had anything in common. It seems strange for it to be now, because about 20 years ago, she had an opportunity to contact me, but she didn't.

Apparantely, she owns a jewelery business in Hawaii, and uses Facebook to promote her store. I just get the feeling her interest in me is from a networking/marketing perspective.

 

[PTree15]

Hmm, I guess I would be suspicious of her motives as well, but it can't hurt to say hello and find out what else is going on in each other's lives and see where it goes.

 

[KLS52]

I would agree. Can't hurt to give benefit of the doubt unless you really have no interest at all in reconnecting. People change as they get older. She may have felt awkward to contact you earlier. I guess I'd be wary, just in case. As far as the conversation goes, I'd take my cues from her, since its her idea to catch up, and see where it goes. I hope her interest is more than just her jewelry business.

 

[shyvas]

I would agree. Can't hurt to give benefit of the doubt unless you really have no interest at all in reconnecting. People change as they get older. She may have felt awkward to contact you earlier. I guess I'd be wary, just in case. As far as the conversation goes, I'd take my cues from her, since its her idea to catch up, and see where it goes. I hope her interest is more than just her jewelry business.

This.