To be clear, I’m not discussing immediate family (my wife and daughter are wonderful). Also, I’m not discussing “toxic” family members (I’ve distanced myself from those folks).

What I’m referring to are those aunts, uncles, cousins, inlaws, and such, who are in your life but, for a variety of reasons, add nothing positive to it.

There’s nothing engaging or endearing or helpful about them. You “love” them, sure – but truthfully, if you weren’t related to them, you probably wouldn’t pursue them as an acquaintance. And frankly, they probably feel the same way about you.

We’re pleasant to each other, but any attempts at a meaningful or deeper relationship always fail to launch.

Furthermore, you can’t simply stop seeing them, as there are intertwined relationships, responsibilities, and history to contend with.

So, what to do with this familial malaise?