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Old May 08, 2012, 12:50 PM
KathyM KathyM is offline
Elder
 
Member Since: Jun 2007
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Posts: 5,518
Hi Mike

If you love your niece, you can show her by giving her some space. She's your niece, not your "playmate" or "girlfriend," so there is no need to feel jealous of the other people and "uncles" in her life.

If her attitude towards you bothers you, I don't see the harm in asking her why she appears to be avoiding you. Given her age, I wouldn't expect much of an answer though - being a kid can be really hard. In order for her to grow up and stand on her own two feet, she needs to stay focused on moving forward with her own life. She can't afford to rekindle what you once had and/or "go back in time" in order to satisfy your need for the time you've lost with her.

You already have a connection, and you will always be her uncle. Be good to her, care about her, and show her you care...but don't smother her.

That would be my advice, if you're looking for advice.