Sarcasm, from 'loved ones'

It's the "ber" months again!


Eid was on a September...
All Saint's Day on November...
Christmas( for those who celebrate it ) on December...
Eid Al-Adha too perhaps...
Weddings (hehe Hning)


It's that time of the year where family gatherings are in full swing...
It's when families gather for seeing their relatives, eating festive food, and of course, getting a dose of sarcasm...from 'loved ones'

It's enough to have some people avoid reunions because of the following:

"What, 28 and STILL UNMARRIED? Look at your cousins! Didn't hit 25 when they got married.."
"So you've decided to give up THAT job and look for a better one, huh?"
"Aren't you planning to give your parents a grandchild anytime soon?"


Sarcasm at reunions. You can't avoid it. You're being given that because the relative either hates/envies/despises you or they just love to make others feel uncomfortable because they're insecure with themselves. It's something we have to deal with. So, first,before you face the crowd at any family fathering, hide all sharp objects. Second, take a deeeeep breath, and third:


1.Steer Clear! If she/he says " You look sooo FAT this year, go on a diet!!!" just reply with something like "well at least kids come near me to cuddle because I am so soft!" You'll end up witty that way. If the person is really intrinsically negative, just move away and look for friendlier company.

2.Use your humor. Ok, so your aunt says "she's so hyperactive, well that's because she's the eldest, always spoiled!" about a child or sibling of yours. How to reply? "Well maybe she'll be a physicist when she grows up and refute Einstein's theory of relativity while breaking all our vases!" could be a good retort. You'll make the person look baffled because she made a fool out of herself! Then again, she'll think twice before doing it again.

3.Lovingly confront. Ok, I know you'd rather gouge the eyes and heads off these people, and being loving to them may be difficult, but sometimes it's worth remembering that these folks may have problems with themselves or are insecure, so they may need much more understanding than usual. Just gently reply to them, things like these:

"I'm glad you are concerned with my single status, but I'm happy with my life right now, and I'd appreciate it very much if you don't bring up this subject again."

"I know my kid/brother/sister isn't as smart as your kid, but please remember your kid doesn't need to be compared to those not like him."

"I know you don't like my husband/wife because he's/she's not from our family. But I'm happy with her/him and our parents approve of us and that's what matters most."

"I have my way of figuring out what's my ideal working environment and I'm taking my time. I'd appreciate it if we don't talk about this anymore."

4. ESCAPE!!! If family gatherings are so stressful for you, just stay long enough to be polite. Drop by when the dessert is just being served or have valid excuses like "I'm going over to my in-laws" or "the office is having a party and I have to attend" or anything like that. Thirty minutes should be enough, then dispense with the hello's, the small talk, and good-bye!

5. Reflect. Sometimes criticism from relatives may mean that there's really something wrong. Is it that you're really in a mediocre job? Is it that you never gave any one a better chance to get to know you? Maybe some reflection may help to iron out some wrinkles, and then move on!

Ready for that family reunion?