The Gay UK December 2015 | Page 113

COLUMN CREDIT: Luke Palmer / Public Domain MAGDELEINE If there is any aggro at some point during your stay with family, the only way to deal with it is to not argue back. Don’t give them the satisfaction of rising to the bait. Plus, if you end up in an argument, the rest of the family may not look favourably on you. The best way to deal with such a situation is to physically remove yourself from the situation. Go to another room, go and help your Nan peel some sprouts, take the dog for a walk. Anything to get yourself away from the argument. Nobody needs an argument at Christmas and frankly you are better than that. At least that’s what you should tell yourself. Being Alone at Christmas While it’s great to have the opportunity to see family at Christmas, that’s not the case for everyone. There are some families that are so unaccepting that it’s impossible to visit them. That of course can lead to the very real prospect of facing Christmas alone. Most people don’t want to be in that situation, so here are my top tips for ensuring you’re not lonely this Christmas: 1. Are any of your friends in the same situation? Perhaps you could spend Christmas with them. You’ll understand how each other feels, be able to keep each other company, but also you will probably end up having a really lovely day. 2. If there isn’t anyone you’re able to spend Christmas with, see whether there are any charities that are providing Christmas activities. For example, the LGBT centre in Birmingham had a Christmas day THEGAYUK | ISSUE 17 | DEC 2015 113