So Glenn Reynolds linked to a request for advice on a not-actually-difficult topic:
I’m having my annual holiday anxiety attack. In two weeks, I’ll be at the family table with my four competitive, wealthier brothers and sisters who take intense pleasure in looking down on my husband, children and me…
This is when I start to mutter Well, don’t go. Oh, wait, parents…
…With our parents no longer alive…
Oh, that simplifies matters immensely, then. Go eat Thanksgiving dinner with people that you like and let the Siblings From Hell consume each other like Kilkenny cats instead. Either that, or said siblings will discover that they miss seeing their nephews/nieces enough to encourage them to grow the hell up.
Moe Lane
PS: What? No, actually, I get along just fine with my sisters and my sister-in-law.
Personally, I don’t see why this is such a big issue. Life is too short for stuff like that. Stay home with your family, invite friends to come by and enjoy life.
Mind you, I’m getting ready for a gathering of 50+ people at the beach in a few weeks. Thankfully, the main problem died a few years back and things are quite peaceful if a bit noisy.
oooor, maybe her husband ought to punch someone in the mouth until they learn how to act right. Either way.
Not the most desirable option, but I can see that coming up for years afterwards.
“Sure, I don’t make as much money as you. But you cry like a baby after one punch.” 🙂