Lots of loose ends to tie up--items to cross off that ever growing list. And then the holiday parties start. No, thank you, I'd rather not.
I understand the benefit of social interaction. I've even come to realize how sometimes the folks we don't want to be around, can actually provide a much-needed look inside ourselves. Besides, as long as the dinner or party is somewhere else, you can leave when you want-- if you can't take it anymore.
But you have to be polite and very diplomatic all the way. Manners are important. Momo used to tell me to "kill them with kindness." It can't be fake though. So you have treat them like you would someone, you scarcely know.
Why is that we often treat strangers better than those we know very well? Jb asked me this once, and I told him it's because we don't know how rotten the stranger is, or if he even IS rotten or maybe because we haven't seen the stranger's rottenness in action.
But that is beside the point...
If you treat this aggravating individual as if you have never met them before , or as if you are casual acquaintances, your visit will be pleasant. It may just throw them a curve ball and make them behave, too. Which works out excellent, because then you actually have a good time at this dinner or party or whatever.
If they don't get it and still act like an ass, remember you barely know this individual and respond appropriately. How would you respond if someone you barely knew acted like an ass?
Why you'd very politely put a little space between the two of you. Body language in it's most primitive form is best. Save the modern day body language for some other time.
The main thing here is self-discipline. But the self-discipline is for you. It benefits you.
It keeps your blood pressure normal and keeps your "tits out of the wringer," as JB would say.
And it provides you that social interaction that enhances your life expectancy.
It's your party, too.
