Holidays are upon us and so are the classic questions every family member wants to know. Such as: “Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?”
“ Why are you still single?”
“Have you dropped out of college, yet?”
“ Have you gained weight?!” Here are some typical scenarios that I may or may not have experienced myself.
Your grandparents ask you questions out of courtesy and don’t listen to your answers.
Grandma: So, you haven’t dropped out of college, right?
Me: Uhhh.. No ma’am?
Grandpa: You’re still pre-med, right?
Me: No, sorry, still in that Liberal Arts crowd.
Grandma: I’m so glad you decided to be a doctor just like your father. Such an admirable profession. Carry on the legacy of not being a loser!
No matter what I say, my grandparents continue to tell people that I am studying medicine. I guess I should be thankful they have such confidence in me?
Then there’s your aunt who always comments on your physique, or lack there of, while you’re indulging in holiday treats such as cookies and wine.
Me: Hey auntie, it’s so good to see you!
Aunt: You sure you want to be eating cookies and drinking wine? That’s a lot of calories you know. You should think about using those Insanity workout videos I got you! (It's even more ironic when your aunt buying Insanity workout videos is also a psychiatrist)
Me: I’M CURVY AND I LIKE IT!
Why can’t a girl indulge in one, maybe two packages of Oreos? I will happily absorb every calorie.
There’s always that cousin who brings his girlfriend to Christmas, who he may or may not be fighting with.
Cousin’s girlfriend: Why don’t you pay attention to me anymore
Cousin: What?
Cousin’s girlfriend: WHY DO YOU THINK I’M UGLY
Cousin: Dude what’s your problem?
Cousin’s girlfriend: I spend hours looking like a Kardashian for you and you don’t appreciate me!
Cousin: I don’t understand what I said.
Cousin’s girlfriend: It’s not what you said it was the way you said it!
This exchange is one that everyone hears but pretends not to. This is always awkward for everyone.
While social exchanges with distant relatives can be taxing, remember that you are blessed to have a family. Many don’t have families to celebrate with. Remember that it is a blessing to have a family to complain about.
