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Would you feel hurt by this, or am I overreacting? Five year friendship but feeling taken for granted.

(35 Posts)
Imagreatauntie Tue 14-Apr-26 00:49:23

@silvershadow you could be right but in that case don’t agree and then dump me for a better offer on the day. If that is what she wanted then she’s probably got her wish sadly

Silvershadow Mon 13-Apr-26 21:40:27

Could the age difference be a big factor here? Not many young mums would pass up a day out with a similar aged friend for a day out with somebody much older. Perhaps she’s trying to build a bit of distance herself?

Imagreatauntie Mon 13-Apr-26 20:16:49

To answer a few questions:
Yes we both still live overseas
I wouldn’t be able to have contact with the child without her mother, she’s still only young
I was angry and replied to her message to say it’s clear I wasn’t a priority so I think it’s unlikely she will contact me, it would always be me to make the first move I think
I feel sad but also still a bit angry, all my other friends have told me in the past that I’m being used and I’ve just kept doing it
I don’t fall out with people easily and would really rather not but I don’t want to feel hurt and used again either

sixandahalf Mon 13-Apr-26 16:46:41

I'm trying to get a picture of the situation here. You say you were "living away from home"
Is this still the case?

For what it's worth, I think people are quick to drop others these days. Mostly due to social media and I think Covid changed a lot.

Oreo Mon 13-Apr-26 16:44:57

62Granny

Would you still like to keep in contact with the child? Is this something that the child would like? And the mother would be ok with? If so I would try and maintain that bit of the relationship but not perhaps not rely on the mother for anything. I would cool things off for a few weeks and see if she makes contact with you then perhaps see how it goes from there.

Good advice👍🏻

62Granny Mon 13-Apr-26 16:37:17

Would you still like to keep in contact with the child? Is this something that the child would like? And the mother would be ok with? If so I would try and maintain that bit of the relationship but not perhaps not rely on the mother for anything. I would cool things off for a few weeks and see if she makes contact with you then perhaps see how it goes from there.

Shelflife Mon 13-Apr-26 16:35:42

I think you may have to stop back . She is at odds with other people- not a good sign !

Gran22boys Mon 13-Apr-26 16:00:22

The fact that she’s fallen out with other friends says it all. She’s unreliable so don’t expect much from the friendship.

Grandmabatty Mon 13-Apr-26 15:59:17

Step back. Don't make a big thing of it but don't be available anymore. Her priorities are not yours. You don't have to stop being friendly but don't make any more arrangements involving her

Imagreatauntie Mon 13-Apr-26 15:22:07

A few years ago, while living away from home, I became close to a single mother and have been a supportive presence in her and her child’s life — a bit like an honorary grandparent.

Over time I’ve helped in many ways, practically and emotionally, and have always been happy to do so.

This weekend, I asked her to come with me to an event as I wanted some company. She agreed, but on the morning of the event messaged to say she’d arranged to meet a friend later so would rather skip afternoon event and I could just meet them later, adding I could still go alone if I wanted.

I felt quite hurt, especially as this isn’t the first time she’s let me down. I don’t feel I ask for much in return.

I’m not someone who gives up easily, and I feel sad for her child, who I’ve grown close to, but I’m starting to feel taken for granted. She has also fallen out with many other friends over time.

Am I expecting too much, or is it reasonable to step back from this friendship.