Philip and others. Don't try to over analyze the situation. Take it for what's it's worth. It's just lousy handwriting, it's just a fish, but it IS a message.
As some people here know my situation with a JW associate,- I gave up on him at the end of the year. If he calls I will be polite, and help him out. But he is not family. I have no interest in where his life takes him. Why? Because he couldn't care less about me, unless it is about his religion.
This is different-family. Just don't get excited unless there is something good to look foreward to. Who knows. But don't let it tie you up. People make choices-sometimes bad choices. My own brother couldn't bother to visit us for the second Christmas in a row. No idea what the problem is, but he is a big boy.
If there is help wanted, there might be more hints. Watch and listen carefully. It would be nice if something good comes out of it, but don't hold your breath. Bill.