This is the first year I've ever come home for the holidays! That statement sounds much bolder than it actually is because apart from last year, I've always been home for the holidays. Born and raised in Vancouver, I've always had my crazy family around me during the holidays (and all other days). Family dynamics are so peculiar. Each one with their own obsurd and unsettling (if not disturbing) quirks. Frighteningly, I don't think much about my family is incredibly unique. Here are some common behaviours:
1. Silent Partners - Although they spent a large chunk of their lives around each other, direct communication is now taboo.
2. Eyes Wide Shut - The family members who refuse to acknowledge obvious truths and voluntarily turn a blind eye to all kinds of bullshit.
2. Eyes Wide Shut - The family members who refuse to acknowledge obvious truths and voluntarily turn a blind eye to all kinds of bullshit.
3. Singles Stigma - If you're 30-something, single and ethnic... You're parents may suspect you've got the gay.
4. Brinksmanship - Do you have more money than your cousin? More children? More clout? Anything measurable is up for comparison.
4. Brinksmanship - Do you have more money than your cousin? More children? More clout? Anything measurable is up for comparison.
5. Tradition as a Weapon - Old world traditions are often introduced into the new world as a manipulative tactic. We all know the women that translate the male role of "protector" into "payer" (of everything).
6. Fake Fanatics - Fijians fake the funk when it comes to religion and custom because most families just make stuff up. I think most like to appear pious.
We like to drink, dance and dine on loads of amazing food. Hopefully the shindig ends before a fight breaks out.
This isn't just my family, right?
We like to drink, dance and dine on loads of amazing food. Hopefully the shindig ends before a fight breaks out.
This isn't just my family, right?
