The lyrics “You make me happy, this you can bet…” are blasting out of the speakers, your uncles are grilling their famous BBQ chicken, and everyone is color-coordinated. Yes, I’m referring to family reunions, the time we either love to hate or hate to love.
Your family comes together for either one day or what seems to be one long weekend, full of love or even arguments. Yet, this is the same time that you will get a good meal and enjoy the presence of your family. Although some families can’t do without one another, there are some who can't stand the sight of each other. Either way, there are always pros and cons to having a family reunion.
Pros:
1. Seeing other family members
This does not necessarily include the cousin who lives about 30 minutes away; I'm referring to the great-aunt who lives about seven hours away and whom you never knew existed. Meeting extended family is great because you may potentially meet people who live across the country. This is beneficial because if you travel or go to college in another state, there may be someone who you can call on for a place to stay or things to do in their respective city.
2. Food
The food is probably the best part of a family reunion. You have everything from hot dogs, chicken, deviled eggs, salad (pasta, potato, macaroni, seafood), and the absolute best -- crab meat! Having a lot of seafood at the reunion may be a Maryland thing, but food in general makes the event that much better.
3. Music
This is where we all can relate! The music may not be Future’s "DS2" or Jill Scott's new album "Woman," but it is still a party! Even though the music may have your grandmother’s or parent’s "back in my day" vibes, the reunion will still be enjoyable.
Cons:
1. Fights/Arguments
I know we all love to see a good fight, but not at family events. This is a moment that only happens every year, or every few years, so a fight shouldn’t ruin it. If you want to fight or argue, go somewhere else. The younger kids of the family should not witness such chaos and the rest of the family shouldn’t be disappointed. Try to hash things out during a moment that is appropriate. Never be responsible for instigating the situation. If there is a problem taking place and you are able to help solve it, try your best to do so.
2. Doing more than others
It takes many people to accomplish a family reunion, but sometimes a team of 10 turns into a team of one. One person may end up having to order the reunion t-shirts, reserve an outdoor space, and figure out the menu for food. That can be pretty stressful for only one person, especially when others were suppose to help. Always help out the best way you can so that your family's reunion can run smoothly.
3. Fraud family members
Just like in the movie “Poetic Justice,” we all have that “cousin” whom we have never seen in our lives. When Justice, Lucky, Iesha and Chicago were traveling and smelled the barbeque, they immediately pulled over. Then kindly went up to Cousin Pete and said “Cousin!” Pete had a look that said, “Who are you?!” -- but Lucky finessed his way into getting a few plates, including one to go. So if someone doesn’t have on a reunion shirt, keep an eye on them because I’m sure he/she just wants the food.
You should be prepared for banging food, bumping music, and a great time with the family. You should also be ready for a WWE SmackDown, a one man bandstand, and the fake family members who are trying to get a plate. Nonetheless, don't focus on the negative things at what should be a memorable event for the entire family. Have a blast at your family reunion!
