I (26F) recently returned from attending my sister’s (28F) wedding last weekend, and I’m still not quite over what transpired. I’m feeling awful right now, so I’m hoping you guys can help put things in perspective for me.
A little history: My connection with my sister Anna has always been complex. She’s the overachieving, perfectionist, type-A person, whereas I’ve always been more carefree and artistic. I’m an artist who just launched a small business of my own selling paintings and taking on commissions. I’m quite proud of it, even though it’s been sluggish and is now beginning to pick up. However, my family has always been a little contemptuous of my work choice, especially Anna. They don’t understand why I chose not to follow her “traditional” path.
All right, let’s jump ahead to the wedding. It was a lovely ceremony, and I was genuinely delighted for her. Even though I wasn’t the Maid of Honor—that honor went to her best friend—I still contributed a lot to the preparation. She’s my sister and I love her, so I was doing my hardest to be there for her in spite of everything.
I eventually had a chance to speak with Anna alone during the reception and congratulate her. I told her how thrilled I was for her and how wonderful everything was. And all she does is grin and say, “Thank you! I’m shocked that you managed to make it. I assumed you would be too preoccupied with your side gig.
I was taken aback. Did she really just refer to my line of work as a “hobby”? That’s not a hobby, it’s my job, I kind of laughed at that, but she just shrugged and said, “Well, it’s not a real job, but I’m glad you’re having fun with it.”
I simply turned to leave because I had no idea what to say. I just couldn’t get over what she said, even though I tried to enjoy the rest of the evening. She seemed to be disparaging all I had worked so hard to achieve. So I basically made the decision to depart after dinner. I simply packed my things and headed off without saying goodbye to her or anyone else.
My mom is now really upset with me because I left the party early and “ruined” the evening, and Anna hasn’t talked to me since. In an attempt to maintain objectivity, my dad acknowledged that I might have overreacted.
I might have, I’m not sure. However, seeing her say that stung a lot, especially on the day of her wedding when all I was doing was trying to encourage her. AITA for departing early from the wedding?
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