Maintaining distance while managing familial relationships requires clear communication. Recognizing Betty's attempts to reconnect is important, yet it's essential to express current emotional limitations. Return her outreach with appreciation while indicating your struggle with personal burdens, thus adjusting her expectations. The frankness about your situation helps prevent misunderstandings and emotional distress within the family. By addressing her efforts kindly, relationships can manage expectations, minimizing the risk of conflict and fostering mutual respect during your healing process.
Reach out to Betty first and tell her that you've noticed (and perhaps appreciate) her desire to rekindle a friendship.
Let her know that you're still in a tough place and that you just don't have a lot of capacity.
Acknowledging her efforts keeps her feelings from getting hurt, and being honest about what you can and can't offer right now saves you from having to re-engage.
Setting boundaries honestly can help manage family dynamics and expectations moving forward.
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