My mind raced as I tried to decide what to do next. I wanted to maintain peace for the sake of the family gathering, but I couldn’t let this pass without standing up for my daughter.

“You’re wrong, and it’s hurtful,” I insisted, trying to keep my emotions in check. “She has every right to be there with the other kids. You should know the impact of your words and actions.”

My sister shrugged, and I realized that reasoning with her was pointless. My daughter’s happiness and dignity were more important than trying to win an argument that she wasn’t willing to listen to.