Vacations are supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable, but babysitting three rowdy kids can be a challenge. Some people are willing to pay for themselves to avoid this responsibility, and they’re not alone.
A netizen recently asked, Am I a jerk for saying I’ll be driving myself and paying for my own room on the upcoming family vacation so I won’t have to be a babysitter? We want you to look into this matter.
Background Story:
The Original Poster (OP) (23M) was repeatedly stuck playing the part of helper and babysitter on family outings. He had to move out of his parent’s house because he kept being forced to help watch his three nephews.
They Took A Vacation
Last year they took a family vacation in the summer to the coast. OP rode along with his parents, who paid for his hotel room. Only he had to share that room with three rowdy boys because his sister and her husband wanted a room for themselves.
What Does OP Say
OP says, “I was promised time to do my own things on the vacation. But instead, I ended up having to help with these kids. I complained to everyone and was reminded I was there for free.
And then we did only one thing I wanted to do, which was to tour an art gallery. I like doing this whenever I’m at the coast. But the kids find it boring.”
What Are The Plans For This Year?
This year, OP’s parents have a beach trip planned for June. And they assumed he’d be riding along the same way as last year. But he refused. OP said he’d be driving himself, and paying for his own hotel stay to have his own room. His parents were shocked and tried to remind him of the cost. He said it was no worry. He has got a good job and a decent running car. He can more than afford it.
The BUTS Started
That’s when the “Buts” started. OP also stated the previously listed things as to why he’ll be driving himself and paying for himself.
OP told them, “I want to be able to enjoy this vacation as an adult, and not be treated like a child like last year.”
How Did OP’s Sister React?
OP’s parents told his sister, and she called to blow up at him that he’ll be ruining the vacation if he’s off doing his own thing while she has to wrangle her three boys.
OP ended up yelling at her that last year all she did was rope him into her mess. And that he didn’t really get to do much of anything he wanted to do. And he was treated like the bad guy for wanting to just go to an art gallery.
“I’m a grown man. I deserve my own vacation too.” Said OP.
What Happened Next?
Now OP’s sister is not speaking to him, and his parents are still trying to convince him to just ride with them to keep the peace. He’s still refusing. But the pressure is getting to him.
“Am I the jerk for not giving in? I know they’ll have a pretty hard time when they won’t have another person there to help”, asks OP.
You’re Nicer Than Most People Would’ve Been
“That’s a laugh. She’s admitting she’s ruining *your* vacation so as not to ruin her own! They’re *her* kids and *her* responsibility.
In fact, you’re nicer than *I* would be; I’d just say “No thanks; I’ve got other plans” and avoid the family vacation altogether.”
A Clear-Cut Case Of Golden Child and Scapegoat
“Do not give in. It’s time to stand your ground. This internet stranger is proud of you.
Never in the history of “Am I the Jerk” has there been such a clear-cut case of Golden Child and Scapegoat, and I’ve seen some doozies. Honestly, what are you getting out of these family vacations? Just go do your own thing and avoid the hassle and stress and pressure to babysit.”
Go On Your Own Vacation, Buddy
“Not the jerk but if you are paying for yourself, go somewhere else on your own to make it a hard no to babysitting.” Said one.
“I came here to say this! If your parents keep giving you a hard time about this, then go on your own vacation somewhere else.” Another added.
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This article was originally published on Mrs. Daaku Studio.