Hi all: I do remember one very stressful Christmas celebration. Before going I told myself it was going to be o.k. Next, I told myself that it was only one day and that if something was said, to either ignore it, smile about it and even laugh and make a joke of it. Sometimes I take myself too seriously anyway and should laugh at myself.
This usually throws them off course and breaks the cycle, they probably will try another jab as they may not give up easily, but if you don't react, knee jerk or otherwise, they just huff and puff and everyone else notices and admires you for not taking the bait. How's that for being mature and adult? I'm not talking about being a doormat, I'm talking about one day where you might want to put your feelings on hold for a peaceful day.
Alcoholism isn't mentioned much on this site, however, we know that many families may have this problem with a member or two of their family especially at "party" time, holidiay, etc. In my experience some alcoholics are merry and jolly and they seem not too hard to tolerate, annoying at times, but at least not violent or abusive as some others are. If there is violence or abuse, then excuse yourself and go home. Until that person can clean up his act, it's just too emotionally draining (verbal or physical abuse). I would not allow my children to experience this, family members or not.
Just some thoughts on the subject, I know there are many more out there....I hope more members share.
Sunny
