The holidays are a wonderful time. There’s an abundance of gifts, cozy vibes, and mouth-watering food, but we’ve all been there when a holiday dinner goes awry. Maybe your bigoted uncle or annoying cousin who constantly digs at you. Unfortunately, spending time with our not-so-favorite extended family is a given during this season. But these five characters will give you the inspiration you need to get through this unpleasant encounter relatively unscathed.
The Quiet One
While she has her talk-back moments, Matilda’s true power lies in her ability to be quietly strong. She receives so much hate from her family that she’s become a master at dodging malicious behavior. Maybe you can even think up some pranks in your head to help you work through any angry feelings (I wouldn’t recommend actually doing them though. Then dinner would get even crazier).
The Outspoken One
If we know anything about Hermione Granger, she isn’t afraid to speak her mind. You can use this approach if dinner is getting particularly dramatic and your family members need a reality check. Try to mimic her snarky comments like “You’ve got the emotional range of a teaspoon”. Hopefully, they’ll get the message.
The Peaceful One
Instead of fighting, try the pacifist method. Winne the Pooh is the perfect example of this. He is internally very wise and doesn’t have to change others to be content. Like Winnie, enjoy your honey (aka food) and let the uncomfortable topics slip right past you.
The Funny One
Don’t try to beat them, make them laugh. Channel your inner Calvin and Hobbes and lighten the mood. Breaking out some witty one-liners could be just the thing to turn dinner around. When something funny overtakes the conversation they won’t even remember what the subject was before.
The One Who Leaves
Like Clark Kent, you may feel compelled to leave at a moment’s notice. But rather than saving lives, you just want to find some solace. And that’s okay! You can take a long bathroom break or quickly excuse yourself to get some fresh air. Collect your thoughts and remember, it’ll be over soon!
The bottom line is, you shouldn’t feel bad about dreading these occasions. It’s perfectly normal to have family members with big opinions that differ from yours. Pick your battle strategy from the choices above and you can make it through, I swear!
In a Holiday mood? Check out this author’s interview about a Holiday middle-grade novel.
All the books these characters are from are available at Bookshop.org.
