I haven't seen my family in nearly 8 years, but I've decided to forgive and forget and will be meeting them for the 1st time in 8 years. What can I expect at this reunion?
2007-01-13 18:50:54 · 4 answers · asked by meredith 1 in Family & Relationships ➔ Family
They will be just as nervous as you are.
Acknowledge this fact when you first greet, then just take a big breath and make eye contact. The rest will flow.
If you feel anger or are upset count to ten before saying anything.
Make it an open ended time frame so you can leave when you like.
Meeting in a restaurant or cafe, common ground, not any ones "turf" will neutralise any ownership of the right to stay or go.
AND use reliable transport, be on time, and be able to get away under your own steam.
If you have a good friend, invite then to turn up about 1/2 an hour after you, then you can call and cancel if things are fantastic.
Just stay sane and safe
Good luck, and remember the worst family members can be better than no- one when a true crisis arises.
2007-01-13 19:33:21 · answer #1 · answered by Fred 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That depends on the situation. Were they also angry with you? Are they also willing to forgive and forget? If it was mutual, be prepared for them to still have some anger towards you. If the estrangement was on your part, they may still be hurt by your decision. The fact that they're willing to meet is a good sign. You may have to talk about what caused the separation in the first place, or they may want to pretend it never happened. I'd say go into it with an open mind, because emotions are tricky... and since it sounds like you're meeting with more than 1 person, it could even be mixed. One could be hugging you while the other is shooting you dirty looks!!! Hope for the best, but expect the worst... this way you won't be disappointed. Know how you want to answer any questions they may have for you, too. Don't want to get caught without an answer.
2007-01-14 03:00:10 · answer #2 · answered by ~StepfordWife~ 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hey, as someone who has been in this position myself...
Think long and hard, then list on a bit of paper what you hope will happen. Then look at this list and ask yourself is it realistic. Then tear it up and let go of all these notions.
I think the more expectations you go in with the greater the opportunity for a dissapointing outcome. Go in there, be yourself, relax and if they don't love you and accept you for who you are... its their loss hun.
Good luck.
2007-01-14 03:01:56 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dont expect much. They probably won't even mention the past at all or give you a decent apology ever,, it will probably be like,, not too deep or passionate, just a regular meeting.
2007-01-14 02:56:01 · answer #4 · answered by MADLYNN 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋