Childfree Abby - Play It Again, Aunt Mabel06 November 2006Message ID: 12kvvf1haca7haf@news.supernews.com
Dear Abby: Our family just returned from a funeral, and "Aunt Mabel" is enjoying one of her favorite pastimes. She loves to discuss in great detail the survivors' reactions. She will tell anyone who will listen the exact reaction of each loved one when they heard the bad news and how they are "holding up." I hate the thought that she'll be discussing me that way someday. It violates my sense of privacy for the people she is gossiping about. This isn't just a nervous reaction on her part. Aunt Mabel will be telling the same stories with relish three years from now. Is this a common topic of conversation? Are there some privacy issues here? What would be an appropriate reaction next time she launches into her blow-by-blow of grief? -- Mabel's Niece Dear Niece: You have described someone who has nothing else to talk about and who takes pleasure in the pain of others. The next time Aunt Mabel raises the subject, tell her that hearing about people's emotional pain depresses you. Then ask her if she's seen any good movies lately -- or the latest episode of "Dancing With the Stars.
Dear Mabel's Niece My esteemed counterpart has come up with some most worthy suggestions. I, however, have one more to add: The next time dear Aunt Mabel launches into one of her epic discussions, take a step back and look at her as if you are concerned. Then say: "Aunt Mabel, I've heard this from you 6 times already. Did you know that repeating yourself is an early sign of Alzheimer's? Have you seen your doctor lately? Should I make an appointment for you? You should really have this checked out." That way, you can look knowingly at the person next to you the next time she starts up. "Poor Aunt Mabel, she's losing it, you know." It may or may not be enough to get her to shut up, but the results could be interesting.
Childfree Abby
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