UPDATE: Tensions are rising as families grapple with changing holiday dynamics, including the growing popularity of Friendsgiving and social media etiquette. Recent inquiries reveal deep emotional struggles for those feeling sidelined during Thanksgiving gatherings.
In a poignant letter to advice columnist Eric Thomas, a reader expressed feelings of resentment over being excluded from her daughter-in-law’s Friendsgiving celebration. This gathering, hosted just before Thanksgiving, includes friends and family, leaving some feeling their own Thanksgiving traditions diminished. “I waited my ‘turn’ to host Thanksgiving,” she lamented, highlighting the emotional weight of familial roles during the holiday season.
The reader’s frustration stems from the feeling that her Thanksgiving dinner, traditionally a cherished occasion, now resembles “leftovers” after Friendsgiving. The emotional impact of this shift is palpable, as she grapples with the realization that her grandchildren will experience two Thanksgiving meals, potentially diluting the significance of the holiday.
Eric Thomas offers a fresh perspective, suggesting that both Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving serve unique purposes. He emphasizes the importance of family togetherness, noting, “What you both want is to have the people that you love around you.” This insight aims to ease the burden of resentment by refocusing on the shared joy of family gatherings.
In another pressing matter, a parent voiced frustration after sharing a photo of their son’s recent civil wedding ceremony. The son and his girlfriend, married for 24 years, explicitly requested that no posts be made on social media. After posting a celebratory image, the parent received a demand to remove it, igniting a debate over social media etiquette within families.
Thomas highlighted the nuances of communication, noting that the son’s request was not articulated clearly. He advised the parent to consider the impact of social media, acknowledging that while sharing good news is natural, it can have unforeseen consequences. He encouraged a focus on family harmony, suggesting that both sides should move past the incident without further conflict.
These evolving family dynamics underscore a broader trend of changing holiday traditions, social media impacts, and the emotional complexities of modern family interactions. As these discussions unfold, families are encouraged to navigate their unique traditions with understanding and compassion.
As Thanksgiving approaches, families are reminded to prioritize connection over tradition. The emotional stakes are high, and how families choose to adapt will shape their holiday experiences for years to come.
For more insights and advice on family dynamics, follow Eric Thomas on social media or visit his weekly newsletter for ongoing discussions.
