I'm not sure if this has been overlooked before, but I'd like to bring a new argument to the table. It's probably because this is an issue near and dear to my heart. I lost my 46 year old brother 2 weeks ago, due to health complications from his 30 year drug habit. It's been traumatic for everyone in our circle of friends and family. The resounding prayer from everyone is their hope that my bro finds the peace that he never found in this life.
That being said, being the sibling of a person with a drug addiction is an unfortunate thing I know really well. It destroys family relationships. They are quintessential liars and their need to lie is so pervasive in their mentality that it is comical yet diabolical. Those that have never been close to it just do not and cannot understand. Any truths they *do* hold are watered down (and justifiably) with the lies that rule their lives. Lying allows them to continue their lives. They lie to get what they need and want. It becomes so entwined with their personalities that the truth is often packaged in a bundle of lies. For one reason: to protect themselves.
It IS your responsibility and right to defend your family against this way of life. If I were in your shoes, I'd trump every charge he's made against you with the addiction charge. Pull up articles (there are many) on how they deal with society to protect themselves. It really svcks that you'd have to resort to this, but honestly, I'd show up at any fight with an arsenal of guns. And my AK47 would be his addiction. And then I'd sit back and watch him squirm.
For his way of life will rob you of any joy or trust in humanity if you allow him to have that position. I know that from experience. I can't remember well a time in my life where my brother's addiction wasn't causing problems in my extended family. When he wasn't using, he was kind, generous and funny. But when he was, he was a thief, felon and vile person.
Google the effects of addiction on families and go for the jugular. You'll win. But you can't be side tracked by his humanity in the equation. He's counting on getting his way. Why? Because he will do whatever is necessary to get it. It's the addict's mantra to manipulate others so they can do what they need to survive.
Have a peaceful weekend, okay?
Betsey
"There are only 2 ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle."