Is this severing ties? What should we do?

Asalaamu Alaikum,

I have a cousin (female cousin) with whom I am not talking to for almost an year. She created a lot of problems for me and my family.  She tried to spoil me and my sister’s life but thank God Allah saved us from getting ito too much evil things. And after that incident she began to lie from her mother that she didn’t do anything and I also know that she told fake stories to other relatives too about us, She damaged our image too much. So that’s why me and my sister are not talking to her. But I want to know that is this included in severing kinship ties with her? If so, What should we do?  I know if I will contact her, she will now make fun of that (I am too much worried about my image and reputation infront of other relatives), Is it okay if I maintain distance from her for  sometime till the situation changes.  If no, what should I do? If my mother will get to know that I am talking to her, she will treat me badly.  But we are in contact with her other family members. I mean we meet them occasionally.
 

Wa Alaikum Assalaam,

A: If she has created problems for you and your family, you should keep your distance away from her. This will not fall into ‘severing kinship ties,’ since she is the wrongdoer who created problems in the family.

While you should keep your distance, keep your heart pure from hatred, malice and ill feelings. Also, do not backbite or slander. Insha Allah, when you see things have changed for the betterment on her side, then you can change your conduct towards her.

 

And Allah Knows Best,

Mufti Waseem Khan.

12/07/15.