Developing Closeness

[JudyMarie]

Perhaps I'm having a sensitive moment, but I need to vent about it.  I just don't understand why people don't reach out and communicate anymore? Am I reaching out to the wrong people? Is it just me? Am I not smiling enough, friendly enough? Somehow I don't think so.  Really, the only person I feel close to is my Mom who is getting up in age and after she passes, I will have no one but my significant other and two kids that I feel close to. I envy large, close families that call each other up, or stop by during the week to catch up.  It just seems that every time we get together with family it is awkward. People sit around staring blankly at each other wondering what to say.  I am frequently the one breaking the ice, but its only a crack. People respond with one line answers, then subject changed.  Why are people so distant? They act like you are invading their privacy. I would love to sit down with a friend or family member and just chat about the day...what did you make for dinner? How was that Girl Scout meeting the other night. What are your FEELINGS about  your new job? Things like that.  I love to talk and share feelings.  Now, I'm not saying I don't have a few good friends and when we talk we DO talk.  I am just wanting more closeness with family and to develop new friendships, but after years of trying, doesn't seem to happen.  OK I'm done and I must start work.  Can anyone relate to this? Oh, and last night I had an actually scheduled phone call with my brother and when he didn't call, after waiting ten minutes I called him and he said "sorry Judy, I can't talk now, I'm watching TV!!!!!!!!!!!, click phone."  I'm just way hurt.