How do you avoid hurting remarks made by inlaws?

Answer 1

Like in the 'Karate Kid' , Miagi say: "Best way to defense, no be there!" Maybe you haven't seen that movie, but it's a good one. Anyway, these inlaws, you are talking about, have to take a jab, right? In a situation that seems so easy, to you, to just have a good time and get on with life, they have to change the current to spice it up a bit. That is the toughest time to ignore and take it with a grain of salt because it goes against the whole vibe, or flow of the occasion, which is just be to alright with each other. It's real hard not to be there because, hey, it's your house, or you were invited! I believe it is because they have no life, or they believe that is the way to have a life, or fill in the gaps. You could try to reverse the action if that's the way they play, see if they don't mind getting it thrown back. If they mind, that solves that. They need to be told to take it, if they plan on dishing it out. That could cause a sour grapes ending though. Take it to another level and ask, "What would make you say something like that?" It could be they have no clue, they just do it because they have nothing else. You might just look at each other, the ones who are on your side, and grin or giggle, or make it known that you are on to it, and it doesn't bother you at all; in fact it's why you invite them!! Then if they take offense and go back to their hotel, good deal, the problem is solved. Then guard against feeling guilty, because hey, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. If I was making my family or friends uncomfortable by taking shots at them, I would think that someone would let me know, nicely.