Carolyn Hax: Decision should be based on framework of divorce

My husband’s brother is in the middle of a very nasty divorce, and my husband and I are grieving the loss of a wonderful friendship with our ex-sister-in-law.

The brother has been adamant about our cutting ties with her. We are not so sure we can do this, and have been thinking of including her in our holiday plans. Would you agree that it’s OK to make an exception at holidays, especially for someone who doesn’t really have other family in the area? – ANONYMOUS

This is wholly dependent on context. The simplistic answer is to say your brother-in-law doesn’t have the right to make you cut ties. He doesn’t.

But: He might have the right to ask. Who wronged whom in the marriage? I’ve read too many accounts of abuse victims whose families insist on staying in touch with the abusers. That’s a huge betrayal by family.

Read More: Coloradoan.com