He Stood by His Brother Coming Out to Their Conservative Father, But Little Did He Know It Would Put His Own Inheritance on the Line.
In a tale of family, identity, and the price of honesty, the Original Poster (OP) navigates the fallout from his brother’s decision to come out as bisexual to their deeply conservative father.
Family Secrets
OP shares the story of his brother, who is carrying a big secret. He is bisexual. This is a secret due to their deeply religious and conservative father.
A Deadly Prognosis
Their father receives a life-altering diagnosis of late-stage cancer, with a prognosis of only 4-6 months to live. This abrupt news sets the stage for a substantial inheritance for OP and his brother.
The Boyfriend’s Persuasion
OP’s brother’s boyfriend persuades him to come out together publicly, tired of hiding their relationship behind a facade of friendship. This, however, goes against OP’s advice to wait until their father’s passing. He knew the decision to come out now would cause more family turbulence.
A Bold Decision
Ignoring OP’s advice, the brother chooses to come out, stating that he does not need the inheritance from a homophobe. This stance reveals a depth to his character that values personal truth over financial security. Yet, the consequences of this choice are not fully realized.
The Changed Will
As expected, their father’s reaction to his son’s coming out is severe. He chooses to rewrite his will, ensuring that OP’s brother receives none of his fortune, instead deciding to give it to charity.
Years of Silence
The family becomes estranged, and OP’s brother doesn’t contact him for years. During this period, OP has no idea about the hardships his brother is facing.
Financial Decline
OP’s brother reveals that he has lost his office job and broken up with his boyfriend. He is now juggling two temporary jobs and living in less-than-ideal conditions. His life has taken a significant downturn.
A Plea for Help
Finally breaking his silence, OP’s brother contacts him, asking to split the inheritance money. He is desperate and has dwindling options. The brother’s plea, however, puts OP in a challenging situation.
A Lucky Investor
OP, having made successful (and lucky) investments, has almost doubled his inherited fortune. He is in a far better financial situation than his brother. Yet, impending familial changes compel him to reconsider sharing his wealth.
An Expected Surprise
OP and his wife are expecting twins, which leaves him with a lot more to consider financially. The need to secure a home for his growing family becomes paramount.
The Housing Market Quandary
The housing market in OP’s city is outrageously expensive, putting further strain on his financial resources. Finding a suitable house for his upcoming twins becomes a stressful task. This leaves OP unsure of how to help his brother and his own family.
A Compromise Offered
Despite his financial concerns, OP offers his brother $25k from his inheritance. This offer is significantly lower than what his brother had hoped for.
A Heated Reaction
OP’s brother reacts angrily to the $25k offer, considering it a gross underestimation of his needs. His response reveals the extent of his desperation and disappointment. This clash further fuels the tension between the brothers.
Consequences Revisited
OP reminds his brother of his past decision, implying that his current predicament is a result of his bold choice years ago. This comment drives a deeper wedge between the two, as OP stands by his offer.
The Lesser Evil
Out of options and swallowed by his problems, the brother accepts the $25k from OP. After receiving the money, OP’s brother blocks him on all platforms. The sudden silence leaves OP in shock and regret.
Unfinished Business
While OP tries to move on with his life and prepare for his twins, he feels the unfinished business with his brother weighing on him. Despite this unfortunate situation, he still cares for his sibling. OP is left in the crossfire of his dad’s decisions.
Was Not Giving His Brother Half Of His Inheritance Appropriate?
The readers in the forum had a lot of mixed views on the matter. Here are some of their responses:
Forum Responds
One reader said, “You have been very generous, in my view, to someone that hasn’t been in touch for years. Yes, he’s family, but it takes two to keep a relationship warm. So for him to call you, ask for money, ACCEPT it, and then BLOCK you because it wasn’t enough, well, I have no words for that.”
Another Commenter Thinks
Another responder wrote: “It pains me that your brother lost his share because he chose to be proud of who he really is. However, he knew what he was doing at the time.”
A Third View on The Story
A different person states, “If you received the full $500k and only offered $25k, I would think you’re a jerk but still within your right.”
A Final Perspective on the Matter
Another viewpoint on the story: “Your brother knew what he was gambling and did not seem to care. It’s your money, and you’ve got kids to think of. You’re giving him some money, and for that, he should be grateful.”
What Do You Think?
What are your thoughts on their actions?
What would you have done in this situation?
This story is inspired by a thread from an online forum.
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