>You do not have any obligations to them just because you are related.

I hear this a lot, and every time, I think it is missing something that causes it to contradict my (and others') lived experiences. Because we DO have obligations to our family just because we are related. The obligations are handed down through laws, social expectations, family tradition, religion, etc. We can choose to ignore these prescribed obligations, but that doesn't mean we aren't reminded of them.

Imho, the point should instead be that our obligations to ourselves and our well-being should usually take precedence over our obligations to our family. And our obligations to a family member can be annulled, at our discretion, through that family member's unacceptable behavior (and failing their obligations toward us).

To me, this is important as that inherent familial "obligation" built into our culture is also a source of great comfort and community for many people. In these uncertain times, knowing your family will be there for you is a source of security to many of those in precarious positions. In this, it's not very different than the obligations we have toward all fellow human beings: do not take them lightly, but do not consider them irrevocable if your well-being is at stake.