As the holidays set in upon us they seem to bring to light the irregular traits reflective in our families. It seems easy to overlook these abnormal traits of our loved ones throughout the year but during the holidays, stress heightens the experience. Holiday after holiday we mesh with these crazy individuals wondering what will go wrong this year. Isn’t it time to accept that our families are truly functionally dysfunctional?
It is apparent in this day and age, considering how our families have grown, we all have a Jerry Springer show somewhere hanging on the family tree. If you’re shaking your head and saying, “No” you are probably in denial. But, as the weather turns and Thanksgiving and Christmas festivities come and go, this denial surfaces. It seems to be in your face whether you want it to be or not.
The fact is, we can’t control our extended families and when you’re expected to be in close quarters squished in with too many of them, the party is going to take on a life of its own.
Everyone has a wildcard relative and a senior person who tends to speak his or her mind whether you want to hear these comments or not. Gossip flourishes; booze flows and sometimes tempers flare, activity typical from those who are functionally dysfunctional.
It is today’s norm to be part of this functionally dysfunctional family tree. We may not want to admit it but perhaps this Christmas it is time to stop fighting the concept. Like it or not, this is our family.
Congregate with them, hug them and love them. The holidays are about family, regardless of how they are wrapped, they are truly special because they belong to us. Enjoy your crazy family and I’ll enjoy mine.
Have a Merry Christmas and happy New Year with them.
If you want to make your family Christmas even more unforgettable, click here for local activities.
Comments