Reply to Ritual of "gratefulness" when outsiders are present. Isn't this unbearable?

Forum Index » Family Relationships

Reply to "Ritual of "gratefulness" when outsiders are present. Isn't this unbearable?"

Subject:

Emoticons





More smilies

Text Color: Font: Close Marks

[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I find it unbearable to be present as a guest at the holidays when someone's family is made or encouraged to go around the table and declare what they are grateful for.  I just can't stand it.

Why did this tradition evolve?  It's so smarmy and insincere.  The kids always say they are grateful for their family, and then add a couple of presents in "My Wingding 2000."  "My new bike."

The parents ooze about their families, their spouses, their health, etc.

Why, why, why?[/quote]

I don't think that there is a problem with the ritual as much as there is a problem with the execution of the ritual. Especially since we live in a society that truly lacks perspective and gratitude. We take a lot of things for granted because we live in a first world country (first world problems). There is nothing wrong to take time to discuss what you are thankful for, if only to remind yourself to be grateful for things that other may never have. However, if it is done in a ritualistic, go through the motions type of way as you describe, then yes, it is pointless because it is not within the spirit of the ritual.[/quote]

Options

	Disable HTML in this message
	Disable BB Code in this message
	Disable smilies in this message

Review message

Search Recent Topics Hottest Topics