By: Natasha Archary
Every family has one family member whose presence is always noticed and whose absence is missed. This relative usually has or makes such an impression or commotion that it’s difficult for anyone to remember anything else.
Many actually only attend the family gathering for this reason alone, to be present when the star of the show takes to the stage.
Sometimes the entire event or gathering is marred by the drama that follows this relatives antics. But, it’s not a family gathering until this uncle, aunt, nephew or niece throws down.
Usually it’s after a few drinks or when someone carelessly picks a topic that triggers an entire episode of family politics.
How to get through a family gathering without much hassle
Blood is definitely thicker than water, but when it comes to family events, especially if it’s a funeral or wedding, there’s a time and place for everything.
It’s often not the time to create a public scene when the rest of the family is mourning or celebrating and it’s important to bring this to the rest of the family’s attention.
If you simply cannot remove the disruptive family member from the invite list, then have someone on standby to monitor the situation and keep the peace.
The minute said person shows signs of uncalled for behaviour, they’re chaperoned out of the venue until they’ve A) sobered up or B) realised they were wrong.
Conflict in family often can’t be avoided and rifts and petty disagreements are bound to arise, but when behaviour patterns begin to get physically or verbally abusive, it’s best to diffuse the situation quickly.
Tips to survive a family gathering
- Treat all family members with the same level of respect
- Stay clear of heated discussions which can incite arguments
- Keep kids entertained and busy
- Avoid gossiping about family members to other family members
- Take a walk if conflict does arise at the family gathering
- Steer the conversation towards your family members personally
- Don’t try to reconcile feuding family members at the event
- Seek advice from the elders in the family
- Monitor the alcohol levels of each family member and if they’re past a certain point, cut off the supply so people sober up
