Lady, please help

My family is in a bad way. My parents have been estranged for a long while and there is no love lost among us the children. I’m the eldest among my siblings. My dad had affairs with other women resulting in his having other children but they all left him. Most of the fall-outs are between my parents and siblings, and they had nothing to do with me. My siblings are as stubborn as a mule while I’m reserved, demure and prudish.

I used to have a cordial relationship with my dad until things went haywire and my siblings went green with envy. He disposed of his car because of his inability to pay the required money. He invited me over to join him. He has taken some of my belongings, as his attitude has changed. He is always burning with anger and battle-ready but I refuse to battle. He is always inviting the police and on one occasion, they beat me black and blue. I limped for two days. It was a good Samaritan that came to my rescue.

Things are not going well for me. I have bagged a degree in History and International Studies. I am currently observing my NYSC. I missed out of batch A in March for no good reason.

I’m consoled by the saying that it’s okay to get mad but let the Lord get even. And He uses people, too. We longer have a house in the village. Our dad forbade us from getting close to our relations. My siblings have denied me my inheritance and this pains me much. My father used to love me but they have spoiled it. He procured a driver’s licence for me without my attending a driving school. This is to tell you how much he loved me. He used to carry my point. I don’t engage in any hanky-panky.

Yours,

Bernete

Dear Bernete,

How’s your mother? Have been in touch with her since she left your dad? What is the relationship between her and your father? It’s a pity you failed to mention anything about her. But if she is in a position to help, I think you should approach her for financial assistance

It’s obvious you are going through a very bad period in your life. But this is the time for you to be very strong and positive because at the end of the day, it’s every individual for himself/herself.

Regardless of what your father and siblings are doing presently, it is imperative for you to remain focused and have a solid plan for your life, which should serve as a guide. Your top priority should be getting a job after the NYSC.

You should also know that life is not a bed of roses and the rough times are bound to come but it is your attitude, beliefs and aims in life that determine whether you survive or not.

I’m happy you mentioned in your letter that you have set your mind on forging ahead whatever happens. This is a right step in the right direction.

Don’t let your siblings or father get to you and if you think that your being close to them is capable of harming you, then keep them at arm’s length, at least for the time being. With time and prayers, things will work out eventually.