Navigating family dynamics during the holidays can be especially challenging, particularly in the context of rising COVID-19 cases. If you’re feeling pressured about attending your family’s annual Thanksgiving gathering, you’re not alone.
Dear Home Insemination Kit,
I’m feeling overwhelmed by our holiday plans. My mom is constantly calling to confirm our Thanksgiving attendance, while my kids are anxious to see their cousins. I long for my grandma’s delicious sweet potato casserole and pumpkin pie, and I genuinely miss my family. However, COVID cases are increasing rapidly in my area. Am I letting my family down if I suggest we cancel our holiday gatherings or if I choose not to attend?
Let’s be clear: right now, there are no good choices. Just a range of tough and tougher options. Decisions that used to be straightforward—like going to school, dining out, or celebrating Thanksgiving—now come with significant risks and uncertainties. Living with a rampant virus is a reality we’ve never faced before.
Instead of searching for a good choice, it might be more productive to focus on the least harmful one. For many, that likely means foregoing typical holiday gatherings with those outside your household, including beloved family members.
The reality is stark: COVID-19 cases are surging. We’re now seeing over 100,000 new cases every day. Not long ago, Dr. Alex Johnson, a health expert, warned about the dangers of small group gatherings during the holidays. “If you have vulnerable individuals in your circle, it may be wise to reconsider large get-togethers,” he advised.
Since elderly relatives, like your grandma and grandpa, face increased risks, the most caring choice may be to stay apart this year. As Dr. Johnson stated, “It’s essential to evaluate whether bringing everyone together is worth the potential health risks.”
There are safer ways to celebrate. If the weather permits, consider outdoor gatherings where everyone can wear masks and maintain distance. But for many, chilly weather makes outdoor get-togethers impractical. In such cases, hosting a virtual celebration is a viable option.
You can still make virtual gatherings enjoyable! Consider organizing a virtual murder mystery or an online talent show featuring the kids. While it may not be the same, wouldn’t it be better to wait a few months to celebrate with your family without the fear of illness or hospitalization? Absolutely.
These discussions may not be easy or pleasant, but recognizing that everyone shares the disappointment can help. Remind each other that these unconventional celebrations won’t last forever. Eventually, it will be safe to gather in person again. It’s far better to postpone celebrations now so that everyone can be together—healthy and happy—when the time is right.
For more insights, check out one of our other blog posts on navigating family dynamics during these challenging times. Also, if you’re looking for additional resources on fertility and pregnancy, Healthline offers excellent information on IVF. And for those concerned about enhancing fertility, refer to this authority on the subject.
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