Let’s agree once and for all that family is everything. This is particularly underscored during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year festivities. Everyone shuts down, and heads home where it all began for them.
Family is that unseen cloth that covers the good, the bad, and the ugly of its members. This festive season has brought about a convergence of siblings, cousins, nephews, nieces and grandchildren sometimes under one roof. Some have traveled across oceans to be together. They are effectively consigned to cooking, eating and sharing bedroom space for the entire period.
I too remember longingly the festive season in my growing up years in Ile-Ife, present day Osun state. I still recollect the sheer camaraderie, unbridled access to nature, and feasting on endless bowls of steaming jollof rice and chicken. What about the freestyle games, climbing sand dunes, singing and clapping to choral music? Or is it running in and out of rooms of elderly relatives? The holiday period still brings back nostalgic memories.
This was way before the proliferation of electronic gadgets, Social Media, and 24/7 entertainment. Family life today has been transformed wily-nily by these tools. So, how have you been faring with the spate of family visits and interactions during this period?
Here are some guidelines on how to handle family gatherings with aplomb:
Plan for the drama: You must prepare yourself for the task ahead. Expect fireworks and drama from close relatives.
Practice Selfcare: Bring along relaxation tools. Play music, take walks, and breathe.
Set Boundaries: Know when to protect yourself from toxic situations, and conversations.
Know when to withdraw: Plan escape tactics when situations turn awry. Feign sudden exits to take scheduled calls.
Be thankful: Always appreciate the bond of family, and know that some members are going through certain situations. Let them be.
Learn to douse tension: Sometimes, keeping quiet helps to reduce tension.
Avoid family triggers: Don’t keep going over past wounds. Be at peace knowing that you will soon return to your normal routine.
Just remember that family is that cloth that keeps being stretched but never torn.
No matter what, family remains the bedrock of the society. Everything else revolves round it. So, endeavour to keep yours going through meaningful interactions and filial love.
Here’s wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a wonderful 2025.
Please send your comments and feedback on this and other topics to mooborscounsellingroom@gmail.com
By Mubo Okosun
Women’s Editor.
