Oscar:So you're back from your mother's birthday dinner. How was it?
Priscilla:Same old, same old.
It isn't a family gathering without a major meltdown or blowup.
Oscar:Yikes, what happened?
Priscilla:You know how it is.
It starts out with bickering and somebody taking offense at some slight or dig, or bringing up some old grievance.
Oscar:Well, that happens in most families.
Priscilla:Yeah, but in mine, they often turn into screaming matches.
We all raise our voices and somebody always storms out.
Oscar:Even at your mother's birthday dinner?
Priscilla:The occasion doesn't matter.
My mother tries to be the peacemaker, but it doesn't take much for tempers to flare.
Oscar:That never happens in my family.
Priscilla:What?! Your family doesn't fight when it gets together?
Oscar:No, we try to sweep things under the rug and put on a brave face.
Priscilla:What happens when you get mad at each other?
Oscar:Nothing.
Priscilla:What do you mean nothing?
Oscar:A lot of our family meals are eaten in stony silence.
Priscilla:Wow, I think I prefer our knock-down, drag-out fights!
