Dear Abby: half-brother, to meet or not to meet.

[cereta]

DEAR ABBY: My father had a son with a woman while he was dating my mother. Mom made Dad choose between her and his son. He chose Mom, and has had no contact with the boy.

Dad doesn't want to interfere with his now-grown son's life. I, on the other hand, would love to reach out and meet my half-brother. Would it be overstepping boundaries if I do this? -- SOMEONE'S SIBLING IN MICHIGAN

DEAR SOMEONE'S SIBLING: I'd be curious to know how you became aware of your half-brother's existence, because I'll bet the topic wasn't discussed in your home. While I might have no objection to you reaching out to your half-sibling -- because I am not emotionally involved -- your mother will feel betrayed and angry. If you decide to move forward, be prepared.

Comments

[likeaduck]

Not that it matters to the question asked, but I'm not clear from the wording that there was necessarily infidelity involved, which other commenters seem to be assuming--the wording, to me, could mean half-brother was conceived, born, or older & in contact while mom & dad were dating.

[recessional]

If he was older and in contact when the mom made the ultimatum I am so horrified at the father I can't even.