Family reunions are worth the effort

Family reunions should be cherished. | Graphic by Angelina Coreschi Columns Family reunions are worth the effort Family reunions should be embraced, not treated as awkward and difficult to manage. Hiding behind the dessert table at the latest family potluck, avoiding a particular aunt and struggling to remember the names of your ever-growing number of cousins, you may find yourself asking, “Why am I here?” It’s a fair question. Family can be exhausting, especially when it comes to extended family. Between forced small talk and uncomfortable political conversations, family reunions aren’t exactly everyone’s idea of a good time. But perhaps that’s precisely why we need them. We’ve become increasingly comfortable avoiding situations that make us uncomfortable. We cancel plans and let relationships fade, convincing ourselves that maintaining connections simply isn’t worth the effort.

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