I love my family but they also drive me nuts. They have good intentions, don't get me wrong but they also like to think they have all the answers. I think all families are like that. A bunch of know it alls and loud mouths. We all have an uncle with too many baby mamas and a cousin who puts all their business on social media and an aunt who doesn't know how to properly use social media so they put 100 unflattering pictures of everyone on Facebook. Or the guy who always shows up at Christmas and isn't blood but has come 7 years in a row so now he counts as family. There's no reason to be ashamed of these people. WE ALL KNOW ONE.
Being around everyone at once though can be a bit much. Especially for people with anxiety such as myself. I find myself praying more and more each day..."Jesus, help me" "Jesus, take the wheel" "Jesus, shut them up"
Sometimes it helps, other times I swear He has too much on his plate to listen to me.
Regardless, I've come with a fullproof system to not only survive but to thrive this holiday season.
1. Shut the hell up. Seriously. Just listen to your people. Whether they're complaining or preaching--just listen. Whatever you do, don't argue.
2. SMILE & HUG. Everyone.
3. Refill your glass. Over and over and over.
4. Repeat steps 1-3.
5. Call an Uber and go home merry!
I guess my point is...no family is perfect, no person is perfect either but I think if we can focus on the good in others--the holidays wouldn't be so harsh.
I learned a song while on my mission trip this summer, it said "The Jesus in me, loves the Jesus in you"
There's a little bit of Jesus in us all--remember that. And Happy Holidays, y'all.