Redditor's Mom Contacts Them Asking For A Share Of The Profit They Make From Publishing A Book After Years Of No Contact

A 28-year-old OP just tried to celebrate finishing their book, and their inbox ruined the vibe. While they were posting updates and asking for support, their mom slid back into the picture like nothing happened.

This is the same mom who spent years demanding money whenever OP had anything coming in, then disappeared into drug use and a revolving door of boyfriends after her divorce. OP went no-contact for years, not because they forgot her, but because the financial pressure never stopped.

Then, right before publication, she asked for a cut of the profit, and OP had to decide how much of their success she gets to claim.

OP's parents have always demanded money from them whenever they had any sort of income

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After OP's parents got a divorce, their mom started abusing drugs and going out with other men

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The mom's life is now in shambles, with multiple attempts at rehab and even more boyfriends

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OP’s mom didn’t just pop back in for a “hey,” she went straight for profit, like the years of no contact were a billing cycle.

Reconnection and Motivations

Psychological research suggests that parental relationships significantly influence children's emotional regulation and self-esteem.

For OP, utilizing techniques like thought records and role-playing can help clarify their feelings about their mother’s request. These tools enable them to express their boundaries effectively, promoting healthier interactions and reducing potential stress in these complex emotional situations.

The situation presented in this Reddit post highlights the emotional tumult that often accompanies reconnecting with estranged family members. The protagonist's experience reflects a blend of nostalgia and resentment, particularly given their history of financial struggles that began at a young age. This journey, punctuated by years of no contact, adds layers of complexity to their mother's sudden outreach for a share of their book profits.

The feelings of abandonment and betrayal that can arise in such scenarios are palpable. The protagonist's hard-earned success is now being overshadowed by their mother's request, which might evoke feelings of guilt or obligation. It is essential to recognize these emotions when navigating the delicate process of re-establishing familial ties. It may lead to more constructive conversations and a better understanding of each other's perspectives, ultimately fostering a healthier relationship going forward.

OP's finishing a book and they've been posting about it, asking for support

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OP's about to publish their book and their mom wants a cut of the profit

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OP rejected her, saying that all of the money goes to their family

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After OP posted about finishing the book and pushing toward publishing, the request hit, and it turned a celebration into a money negotiation.

This feels like the friend who misused borrowed business funds, then demanded forgiveness and more money.

Research on financial dynamics within families indicates that patterns of enabling can lead to unhealthy dependencies.

Studies suggest that past grievances can overshadow current interactions, complicating the process of reconciliation.

Addressing these underlying issues can help clarify intentions and motivations.

OP had a lot of steam to let off

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It's all OP needs to say

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A petty revenge

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OP rejected her, saying all the money goes to their family, which is exactly the kind of line that lights a fuse in families like this.

Unresolved familial wounds often resurface in adulthood, leading to complex emotional responses. In OP's case, the years of neglect and financial burden may contribute to feelings of anger or resentment toward their mother.

Understanding these reactions through a trauma-informed lens can be empowering. It helps OP recognize that their feelings are valid and rooted in their history, allowing them to better articulate their needs in future interactions.

The Emotional Landscape of Estrangement

Research indicates that estrangement often leads to unresolved grief that can resurface during attempts at reconnection.

The best thing OP can do for her

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Now OP is stuck wondering if cutting her off again means more drama, or if paying her would just restart the same pattern.

OP had reached a point of clarity. They recognized the need to set boundaries and prioritize their own family's well-being over unreasonable financial demands.

Their mother's inability to support them during the creative process and her apparent prioritization of her boyfriend's family over her grandchildren had eroded the once unwavering sense of obligation.

Discussing past grievances openly can help both parties understand each other’s perspectives and foster healing.

Creating a safe space for dialogue can also encourage more honest communication about needs and feelings.

The story of OP and their estranged mother illustrates the complex emotions that often surface when reconnecting with family after years of silence. The mother's unexpected request for a share of the profits from OP's upcoming book raises questions about the motivations behind her outreach. This situation is laden with unresolved feelings that both parties must navigate carefully.

Open and honest communication will be essential for OP as they consider how to respond. It is crucial for OP to articulate their feelings and establish boundaries to prevent past grievances from resurfacing. By doing so, they can create a space for potential reconciliation while protecting their emotional well-being.

Empathy will play a significant role in this process. Understanding the mother's perspective, despite the years of absence, could lead to a more fruitful dialogue. Ultimately, how OP chooses to handle this reconnection will significantly impact their future relationship with their mother and their own sense of closure.

Understanding familial relationships through the lens of psychological research reveals a tapestry of emotional dynamics at play.

Nobody wants to get paid in guilt the day their book goes live.

Still torn about family money, check out a son questioning his parents' profit request after their business failure.