Christmas should be the time where families come together, but that won’t be the case for the Markle family. Duchess Meghan Markle has been at odds with her estranged father Thomas Markle and her estranged sister Samantha Markle ever since the royal wedding back in May. But now, according to a Christmas card obtained by The Mirror, Samantha is trying to change her sister’s mind and she shared a heartfelt plea for Meghan to end her estrangement with dad Thomas for the sake of the holiday season.

“Dear Meg, this is not meant to be formal,” the letter read. “The holidays are a time for family and are sentimental. As you know, dad has been trying to contact you and is very hurt because you are avoiding him. Life is short and you know dad is wonderful. Please give him joy in his last years by showing that you love him. The time is now. Please think about this. Your sister, Samantha.”

Samantha Markle apology
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Meghan, 37, and Thomas had a falling out ever since Thomas stirred up some unwanted negative press by staging paparazzi photos for himself in the days leading up to Meghan’s royal wedding to Prince Harry. Thomas later admitted that he set up the photo op to improve his image. During an interview on Good Morning Britain back in June, Thomas said he regretted that decision. “I feel bad about it, I apologized for it, it was a mistake,” the 74-year-old said, according to The Sun.

But Thomas’ oldest daughter Samantha pointed out that since he has heart problems, he may not live much longer and Meghan should forgive and forget before it’s too late.

Thomas and Meghan Markle
Good Morning Britain/Getty Images

“Dad could die before next Christmas,” Samantha, 53, said in an interview with The Mirror. “I’m hoping that won’t be the case, but it would be tragic and sad if he doesn’t get to be around to resolve this. I think Meg would harbor a lot of regret if this were his last Christmas alive and she didn’t reach out and make things right. There is not another day or week guaranteed, so Meg needs to act quickly. The clock is ticking.”