DEAR HARRIETTE: My brother and I have never been close. I’ve worried that after our mother dies, he may leave my life completely. When we do talk, he is often rude or caustic.
Recently, he has been really nice and complimentary. He has been consistent with this new-found kindness. Should I trust it? I usually keep our conversations brief, but if he is now going to be friendly, I am willing to try to connect better with him. -- Should I Trust Him?, Dallas
DEAR SHOULD I TRUST HIM?: What do you have to lose? Go for it. Encourage your brother’s active participation in your family. Match his kind words and gestures with your own. Whatever has occurred to inspire him to be family-focused is great. Build on that. No need to ask why, either. Just be in the moment and enjoy your brother’s presence. Be grateful for this turn of events that creates space for meaningful connection among family members at this stage in your lives.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)