TRENDING TALK
Make the Holidays Happy IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN A TIME FILLED WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS, GOOD CHEER, PRESENTS AND LOTS OF DELICIOUS FOOD. IT IS ALSO A SEASON THAT CAN BE RIFE WITH AWKWARD MOMENTS, EMBARRASSING ENCOUNTERS AND DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS. By Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR
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s you plan a family visit or a social gathering at your home and are thinking about decorations, refreshments and invitations, here is something else to consider. Great conversations are like anything else, they seldom just happen. They are planned. Here are a few ways to help to get things going in a positive direction. SHARING HOLIDAY MEMORIES
remember. What are the traditions, memories, and celebrations that are meaningful to you?
You might ask …
You might share …
I’d love to hear about one of the best holidays you can
A story from your life that would help someone understand what the holidays and traditions mean to you, especially your favorite experiences and memories. MERRY CHRISTMAS VS. HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Sadly, this can be a “hot” topic because Christmas has become largely a secular holiday and many have forgotten
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that it’s based on religious principles and traditions. Unless you are clear about the nature of where and with whom you will gather, planning ahead will help avoid tense or awkward situations. Here are a few tips: •Clarify the meaning you intend to communicate when you express holiday greetings to others. •Resolve not to take offense at holiday salutations that are different from your own. It’s better to just appreciate and welcome the sentiment and good wishes. H
