The Jordan Harbinger Show 1196: Does Sister's Past Give Her Abuse a Free Pass? | Feedback Friday
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Aug 15, 2025 Family trauma and the complexity of forgiveness take center stage, as hosts tackle the question of whether past abuse can justify harmful behavior. They delve into a listener's struggle with a sister who refuses therapy while re-engaging with an abusive father. The show also addresses the emotional pain of friendships strained by breakups, underscoring expectations of loyalty. Additionally, challenges in supporting a partner's job search are explored, highlighting the delicate balance between personal aspirations and relationship dynamics.
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Family Secrets, Forgiveness, And Betrayal
- The writer reveals their father abused both their mother and a stepdaughter decades ago, and the family forgave him under financial threat.
- The half-sister later sided with the father and acted hostile toward the writer and mother.
Set Clear Boundaries And Offer One Last Try
- Tell your sister clearly you want closeness but set boundaries and ask what she wants from the relationship.
- Offer family therapy or space, and treat silence or rejection as an answer to begin grieving the relationship.
Trauma Explains But Doesn't Excuse Forever
- Trauma explains behavior but does not absolve responsibility; the sister can be both a victim and accountable as an adult.
- Jordan emphasizes: "not your fault, but your responsibility" once you're grown and parenting.
