Safe Word for Family Gatherings

For some family gatherings you just have to have a safe word.

It could be a nod, a look, a gesture, a comment whispered in your ear.

Once seen or heard, it’s time to leave.

No discussion, no drama, no explanation. Just leave.

When someone is marching down trouble street, you don’t have to join the band.

Kids? Take them quietly with you and go.

Have that as a quiet agreement with your partner.

With that you quietly maintain your boundary and safety without getting into defending yourself.

Truth is, once your absence is recognized, most will get it.

From that they may learn too.

Therein you are only controlling yourselves. Others may do as they wish.

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I am Gary Direnfeld and I am a social worker. Check out all my services and then call me if you need help with a personal issue, mental health concern, child behavior or relationship, divorce or separation issue or even help growing your practice. I am available in person and by video conferencing.

Gary Direnfeld, MSW, RSW

gary@yoursocialworker.com
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Gary Direnfeld is a social worker. Courts in Ontario, Canada, consider him an expert in social work, marital and family therapy, child development, parent-child relations and custody and access matters. Gary is the host of the TV reality show, Newlywed, Nearly Dead, former parenting columnist for the Hamilton Spectator and author of Marriage Rescue: Overcoming the ten deadly sins in failing relationships. Gary maintains a private practice in Georgina Ontario, providing a range of services for people in distress. He speaks at conferences and workshops throughout North America. He consults to mental health professionals as well as to mediators and collaborative law professionals about good practice as well as building their practice.