We're probably closer to sisters in that regard than we think. I have three sisters who also picked out silver patterns when they were young. Once they married, they did not take their silver - something I've never understood. My mother also acquired four complete sets of china, one for each of us. They declined those as well.
After my father died, I build a suite for my mother and she lives basically next door. I have it all - all the silver, crystal, china, silver serving pieces - the most beautiful things I've ever seen. My dining room table is formally set right now awaiting Sunday dinner. I can only hope that my children appreciate it and will one day take and cherish these heirlooms as I do.
Odd isn't it that some don't like silver and such. I just love the feel of it and when it has a history, I love it more. My mother in law's silver is clearly used alot and you can just feel her presence and life when you hold it.