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Parents = divorced. Neither has ever made efforts towards an active family life. Now my dad's aunt is sick and dying (I barely know her) & he passive-aggressively hints that I should want to road trip with him to say goodbye. It feels crass to say I have more important things to do. What are your thoughts? Am I obligated?

This is a tough one. On the one hand, it's probably your dad's way of trying to connect with you. He's sad about his aunt's condition, and he might need you to go with him for support. And he also thinks that it is the right thing to do. You're family, and should support a family member in a time of need. On the other hand, it does seem like too little too late. It's a shame that it takes a family member's impending death to bring you together, but here we are. And as countless Meryl Streep movies have shown us, sometimes tragedy unites us when we least suspect it. (I think that was the tagline of One True Thing.)

While you're not obligated to go, you probably should. If nothing else, it's a way to honor your aunt's life. Maybe she always wanted to get to know you better but your dad never let it happen. Don't live with the regret of wondering what she was like. This is a good time for both you and your dad to drop the ego and pay your last respects to a member of your family.

And, who knows? This could be the moment where you and your dad actually connect. You've got the road trip to spend time together and catch up. The real test will be whether or not you can maintain the relationship after the road trip. It's worth addressing this with your dad. If you want to be closer, let him know that the ball is in his court to spend time with you outside of a family tragedy.
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A little kindness to a dying woman is never a bad thing. You should do it.

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