Posted on Sat Jul 5, 10:40 PM in Livin'
Our family is drawn together over grilled pork products.
I travelled up to my aunt and uncle’s house today. They hosted a small get-together with me, my mom and dad, and my other uncle (my mom and aunt’s brother). Since we are all from the Brat Capital of the World, we usually grill brats (and hamburgers, for those of us who still prefer them).
It was the first time in many years that I had seen all three siblings together. There have been many ups and downs in the relationships, some fallings-out and whatnot… but it’s amazing to see how everyone mellows out as they age. I watched a lot of bad blood being spilled when I was much younger; now, it’s like it never happened.
So we celebrate a national holiday, grill animal products, and chit chat. I felt out of touch. I am related to all these people, but there was a lot of “back in the day” conversations, and, for once, I just didn’t feel like jumping in to go against their blind observations. In their somewhat new, chilled out states, I enjoy being around them all… much more than I did when I was younger, and saw so many arguments… but when there is nothing to talk about or contribute to meaningfully, then all you can do is sit back and listen, chow down, and laugh politely.
Not much to say here, at this late hour. Just happy to have seen relatives together for once… but sad at feeling so isolated at the same time.
Go ahead, have your say!