Avoiding sin

[EphelDuath]

I don’t get along with my brother at all. Though I’ve forgiven him of all of his wrongdoings, I still sin (anger, profanity) when I’m around him. Is it acceptable to just avoid him altogether during Thanksgiving and Christmas, to avoid falling into sin myself, or do I have to force myself to seek an absolute retribution?

 

[LilyM]

I’d say if his mere presence is enough to provoke this from you, then perhaps you should at least temporarily avoid him.

Let him know why, but in a nice way (stress that it’s yourself having issues with your own anger and profanity when around him) that it’s still hard for you - and that you’ll pray hard for yourself and for him in the meantime!

 

[BobP123]

I don’t get along with my brother at all. Though I’ve forgiven him of all of his wrongdoings, I still sin (anger, profanity) when I’m around him. Is it acceptable to just avoid him altogether during Thanksgiving and Christmas, to avoid falling into sin myself, or do I have to force myself to seek an absolute retribution?

Certain people, including family members, can be occasions of sin. Avoiding them may, however, make the situation worse and we just need to deal with them accordingly. Remember that you are human, humans can and do get angry unwillingly, do the best you can in this situation and if you feel you’re the one falling out of line, then seek confession. And don’t forget to pray for him and all your adversaries.

 

[Pete_1]

Why not turn the other cheek? When he insults you say something kind to him.

 

[latinmasslover]

Why not turn the other cheek? When he insults you say something kind to him.

Easier said than done!

I was in a similar situation with my mother, we just can’t be together a lot. Since I don’t know the situation, why you get angry, is he equally angry, who’s provoking. etc. I can’t say with any clarity. If you avoid him, do it in charity, and pray, pray, pray for guidance. If you can turn the other cheek, by all means do it! You know the situation better than we do, but if you do see him, I recommend offering at least three Hail Marys specifically for the two of you.