Family get-togethers can only go two ways – a warm and happy occasion, or a tension-filled,  depressing one. Here are some suggestions on how to avoid ending up with the latter.

If you are hosting this year’s family reunion and you know that a lot of tension has been going through the family lately (due to one or several issues), then it’s probably a good idea not to push through with it. If you are invited but you know something bad is bound to happen, then don’t
attend.

If you are having a party, be the tactful and gracious host. If someone declines, do not speculate about the reason. Accept it and avoid gossiping about it with other people.

Limit the alcohol. Harsh stinging words and actions are often the result of too much alcohol. If you can make do without it, then don’t even think of including it in the menu.

Don’t forget to provide stuff for everyone to do. Don’t force everyone to join in the games. If the men would like to puff their cigars and talk, then let them. If the women feel like staying in the kitchen and gossip, then go ahead and let them. If there’s anyone who just likes to play wallflower, by all means, let them be! Respect the boundaries that people have set and you’ll do just fine.