Punishing one for the sins of the family

[iDdraig]

18+ years ago, when I was young, naive, agnostic and married to my first wife (annulled by the Church), I agreed to become a godfather to the daughter of my ex-wife’s family friend. Even today, I couldn’t even tell you the denomination of Christianity they belong too, but I recently received a message on Facebook from my goddaughter who I haven’t spoken to in over 16 years. Deep down I know that I should ignore the message, which by engaging with that family would only bring pain and a path I wish to not walk. However, I feel guilty. I am essentially punishing the daughter for the sins of the family. For my sins, for the history I have with them. She was only 6 when I left and knows nothing of me, other than what her family may have said. She claims she wants to get to know me, but I feel that she would be better off just forgetting and moving on. I’m not sure what to do. Not feeling very Christian like.

 

[Mayita30]

One of my Godfather was my dad’s friend a long time ago. He was never really part of my life and I have never felt a need to get to know someone who was never part of my life… That situation is very strange. If you feel something wrong , listen to your intuitions. You are not obligated with anything.