A woman named Olivia recently reached out to our editorial team with a letter that really touched us. She didn’t write out of anger, but because she was hurt, confused, and looking for advice. She opened her letter, saying, “I’m 29 years old and I have a twin brother, Jack. He has three kids. I’ve always helped him. I babysit whenever he asks. I never say no nor ask for money. I love his kids like they’re my own.

A few weeks ago, we had a big family dinner. During the meal, my brother said I was such a good aunt. I smiled, but then my SIL laughed and said something that left me speechless. She said, ‘Of course she’s a great aunt and a perfect free babysitter. But we all know why she’s always so happy to watch the kids!’

And then it got worse. Right there in front of all family members, she started saying more. She joked that I was too obsessed with her kids. That I probably babysit so much because I don’t have a life of my own. She laughed while saying it, and no one stopped her.

I sat there, frozen. I couldn’t say anything. I wanted to cry but held it in. I felt so small. I’ve always done my best to help her without ever asking for anything in return. And she turned that into a joke.