The decision to attend a high school reunion is a personal one, and the writer of "No Way to a Reunion" had good reason not to participate. The cost of attending can be prohibitively expensive, and many attendees will likely be deceased or unable to make it.
Growing up, the writer was bullied, which led to frequent absences from school and poor grades. If they hadn't been subjected to bullying, their high school experience might have been very different. They may have achieved better grades and even secured a six-figure income job.
So, should you attend your 50th high school reunion? The answer is no. While it's true that some unresolved issues from the past may still linger, reunions are not typically designed to provide closure. Moreover, there's no reason to subject yourself to an emotionally or economically draining experience just because you're feeling nostalgic.
It's also worth considering whether attending a high school reunion would do more harm than good. If it might lead to feelings of discomfort, anxiety, or financial strain, then it's probably best to decline. Only once can you make this mistake, so don't feel obligated to attend if it won't be beneficial for your well-being.
On the other hand, when dealing with a serious health issue like a terminal diagnosis, the advice from "Family News" is more nuanced. The writer wants to share this news with their family before January, but is hesitant about how to approach them. A simple yet thoughtful response is to prioritize your own emotional well-being and consider telling your children first.
They will likely have different questions and responses than your grandchildren, and managing the kids' feelings may require more attention in a conversation between just adults. However, having your adult children's support will also help you prepare for conversations with their children later on.
Ultimately, this diagnosis affects not only you but also your entire family, so don't be afraid to open up about your emotions and concerns. Your loved ones will likely want to support you through this difficult time.
As for "No Pets at the Party," it's understandable that you might feel uncomfortable around pets in certain settings. However, making a blanket statement about all pet owners can be off-putting. Instead of generalizing, consider telling your friends that you're not comfortable with pets in the kitchen and would prefer to share meals without them.
If someone invites you to dinner at their home, it's okay to decline if you have concerns about animal hair on food. You don't owe anyone an explanation for your preferences, and politely saying so can be enough. If you do choose to accept the invitation, just make sure they're aware of your aversion to pets in the kitchen.
Write to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110, and follow him on Instagram @oureric.
Growing up, the writer was bullied, which led to frequent absences from school and poor grades. If they hadn't been subjected to bullying, their high school experience might have been very different. They may have achieved better grades and even secured a six-figure income job.
So, should you attend your 50th high school reunion? The answer is no. While it's true that some unresolved issues from the past may still linger, reunions are not typically designed to provide closure. Moreover, there's no reason to subject yourself to an emotionally or economically draining experience just because you're feeling nostalgic.
It's also worth considering whether attending a high school reunion would do more harm than good. If it might lead to feelings of discomfort, anxiety, or financial strain, then it's probably best to decline. Only once can you make this mistake, so don't feel obligated to attend if it won't be beneficial for your well-being.
On the other hand, when dealing with a serious health issue like a terminal diagnosis, the advice from "Family News" is more nuanced. The writer wants to share this news with their family before January, but is hesitant about how to approach them. A simple yet thoughtful response is to prioritize your own emotional well-being and consider telling your children first.
They will likely have different questions and responses than your grandchildren, and managing the kids' feelings may require more attention in a conversation between just adults. However, having your adult children's support will also help you prepare for conversations with their children later on.
Ultimately, this diagnosis affects not only you but also your entire family, so don't be afraid to open up about your emotions and concerns. Your loved ones will likely want to support you through this difficult time.
As for "No Pets at the Party," it's understandable that you might feel uncomfortable around pets in certain settings. However, making a blanket statement about all pet owners can be off-putting. Instead of generalizing, consider telling your friends that you're not comfortable with pets in the kitchen and would prefer to share meals without them.
If someone invites you to dinner at their home, it's okay to decline if you have concerns about animal hair on food. You don't owe anyone an explanation for your preferences, and politely saying so can be enough. If you do choose to accept the invitation, just make sure they're aware of your aversion to pets in the kitchen.
Write to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110, and follow him on Instagram @oureric.
I mean, who needs all that drama and stress just to catch up with old classmates? I've been to a few reunions myself, but honestly, it's just not my thing 
. And I can relate to the whole bullying thing - it was tough for me too back in the day 
. But you're right, there's no need to put yourself through that just because you're feeling nostalgic or want to relive the good old days 
.
. Can you imagine not having good friends because some person was a jerk? 
. If you're feeling nostalgic, make a playlist or something instead! 
I mean, have you seen those pics from back in the day? People looking all awkward and embarrassed... no thanks! 
And yeah, let's be real, it can be super expensive too. Plus, what's the point of reliving all that drama? Not to mention, who knows what kind of toxic energy is gonna be in the air? 
I'd rather stay home and enjoy some peace and quiet than subject myself to all that stress.
. don't wanna subject self to bad vibes or financial stress just cuz feelin nostalgic 
Shouldn't you be focusing on what makes YOU happy, not trying to relive old glory days that probably didn't make you all that great anyway 
. But if you're all good with everyone you went to school with, then maybe it's a cool chance to catch up and reminisce about old times? 
. If someone's got a terminal diagnosis, they should totally be honest with their loved ones and prioritize their own feelings 
.
! The article about high school reunions is so true!!! I remember having to deal with drama & bullies during my time at high school too 
. My money's on NOT attending, TBH 