I must say, that while not knowing the whole story, were I to get this email/letter, I would not be sending any help your way. Sorry if you feel that is harsh, but you asked for opinions.
If I were a member of your family reading this letter this is what I see - you begin the letter by assuming that I don't care to know what is going on in your life or that I don't bother to respond. You don't know what my life is like at home. I may be dealing with issues that you have no idea about. On the other hand, you are accussing me of not caring. Immediately I am offended.
Then you go on about your degree, and I agree it is an accomplishment to be proud of.
Then you go on to explain why you moved and how R and D are the only family members that care, etc. Then you say your are moving out in March and that we may find it harsh that R and D gave you that ultimatum - but I thought we were the heartless ones?
Then, after all the accussations, you ask for money!! I am offended! So you are asking me for money and help with a car, but you open your letter with this is my last year of sending you a Christmas card because you don't care.
Ok, that's my look at it. If you would like my opinion I believe you could do this in a much less needy/offensive way. While you have accomplished much and been through much, perhaps you should just highlight the accomplishments and then ask for help.
In other words, don't go into the blame game. I send out cards every year to folks who have never sent me one back - who cares. If I don't want to do it anymore, I won't. I do it because I want to and I would never send them a card saying "this is your last card since you don't send one back or ever call me".
I would begin by just letting folks know about the year of hurdles you have had:
"Dear Family,
This has been a year of great change for Beaner and me. Finally, after years of hard work, I am three weeks away from my college diploma!!!!! It took a little longer than expected but, you know what they say, good things come to those who wait!
Our housing situation was a little hairy this summer. We were evicted from our apartment in June and didn't know what we were going to do. R&D lovingly stepped in and offered us a place to stay until I finished school and got back on my feet. We have set March as our "moving on" date. We were all able to move into a large place in a more secure neighborhood in September. God has surely blessed us!
So, I will be "hitting the streets" in January to finally look for a position in my field. But a car is one neccessity I am lacking. A car would certainly make it easier to look for a job, get to work, and get Beaner to and from school and the sitter. Here is where I appeal to my family for their help. If any of you are thinking about gifting us this holiday season, help with my goal of purchasing a car would be the greatest gift ever! Or, if any of you know anyone who is selling a dependable car for a reasonable price (I know, my expectations are high lol) or knows someone who works at a used car dealership, a kind word about my situation would also be a welcome gift.
Beaner continues to grow "like a weed" and has struggled some in school this year. But with hard work, he and I have a bright future ahead.
I send the blessings of this holiday season to all of you and ask that you keep us in your prayers. Merry Christmas."
Ok, that is just a suggestion. But if you truly want help, you have to be respectful and eat a little crow!
I hope you are not offended by my words, I really felt the honest feedback would be the most appreciated.
Good luck - you will get everything on track!
Sharon