My sister banned my daughter from joining the pool while other children played and swam: I decided to find out why she did it and was horrified by her answer.
My niece was celebrating her birthday with a pool party, inviting the whole family at her own expense.
Of course, I was thrilledmy daughter absolutely adores swimming and games, so we happily accepted the invitation. But I never imagined the day would turn into an absolute nightmare.
At first, everything was perfect. The children laughed, ran around, and shrieked with excitement. Then came the moment when they all rushed into the pool.
While the others splashed and squealed with delight, my daughter stood frozen at the edge. I noticed my sister deliberately blocking her from the water.
Can I go in too? my little girl asked quietly.
My sisters response was sharp. No.
I watched as my daughters eyes welled up with tears. She stood there, fists clenched, staring at the others having fun while she was left aloneunwanted.
Something inside me snapped. I knew I had to protect my child, so I marched over to confront my sister.
Why can every other child swim except mine? I demanded. If its about money, Ill pay for her myself. Shes just a little girlwhy would you do this?
My sister met my gaze coldly and shrugged. Because I said so.
But why? My voice shook with effort to stay calm. At least give me a proper reason.
She sighed deeply, then locked eyes with me. What she said next stole the breath from my lungs.
Because our parents always loved you more than me. You were the perfect daughtereverything came easily to you, everyone admired you. Now historys repeating itself. They adore your daughter more than mine. Shes always the centre of attention, and everyone coos over her. Whats left for my girl? To live in her shadow? I wont let your child steal the spotlight at her own birthday too.
I stood there, stunned, struggling to process her words. This wasnt just my sisterit was a woman whod spent decades nursing resentment, now taking it out on an innocent child.
I walked back to my daughter, took her hand, and whispered, Come on, sweetheart. Were leaving.
She hugged me tightly, sobbing into my shoulder.
That day, I learned one thing: jealousy doesnt just ruin a partyit can tear a family apart.
