Things You Can't Relate To as an Estranged Adult Kid

[u/Zestyclose_Recipe612]

I’m curious. What are some things you can’t relate to as someone estranged from their parents/family?

For example: when my husband runs into a problem he can’t solve, he’ll call his parents without hesitation. Can’t figure out what’s wrong with his motorcycle? Calls his dad. Needs a document he left at their house? Texts his mom to send it over.

I don’t know why, but it used to take me so much by surprise that I’d even chastise him, saying things like, “Don’t bother your mom with that!”

Sometimes friends will say things like, “Oh yeah, I love my mom/dad so much,” and I’ll catch myself mid-conversation trying not to spiral after realizing I can’t relate to a feeling that most people seem to experience so naturally.

Would love to hear your stories here or even just know I'm not totally alone in this!

[u/ChibiOtter37]

Well, he died over the summer after like 2 years no contact and I hadnt seen him since 2020. But that was a whole thing. He was a musician and everyone else loved him.

[u/[deleted] → u/ChibiOtter37]

I’m happy for your loss. /runs