DEAR ANNIE: I’ve been in a relationship for almost four years now, and while things with my partner are great, I’ve been feeling increasingly frustrated by how his family treats me -- specifically when it comes to birthdays. His family has this tradition where they celebrate every member’s birthday with gifts, cards and a special acknowledgment. However, despite being part of his life for nearly four years, I’ve never received any of that recognition on my own birthday.

My birthday happens to fall on the same day as his nephew’s, who is in his late 30s, and every year, all the focus goes to him. I’m not expecting grand gestures or extravagant gifts, but just a simple acknowledgment, like a “happy birthday,” would mean so much to me. Unfortunately, that’s never happened. No card. No cake.

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