In a recent call with my mother, the conversation took its normal course. There was the “I have some news but I’m not going to tell you because it will just make you mad” topic. This is usually followed by the “I’m tired of taking care of everybody else” and the “Staff at my store are idiots and talk too much” topics. I will say that my favorite one is the story that is going to make me mad but she launches into it anyway and then is immediately defensive at my response.
There is one topic which made me stop and consider family conversation traits in general. During one lengthy call in particular, she mentioned she really needed to call her brother. She hadn’t called him though because it always turned into an hour-plus conversation about nothing. Really? I can’t possibly imagine. That it the exact reason I do not call her more often and have been known to ignore her calls from time to time. I guarantee you that very thought has never occurred to her though.
Here is another interesting family trait on my husband’s side of the family. His mother is notorious for continuing a conversation after he has said, as politely as possible (and sometimes not), “Alright, well, let me let you go.” or “Hey mom, I need to let you go, the house is burning down.” She will even acknowledge him with an “ok”. However, she continues on with the conversation and will even start a new topic. This is where it gets good though. I will be on the phone with HIM and say, “Hey, I need to let you go. Hell’s Angels have surrounded the car and they want me to buy cookies.” What does he say? “Ok.” What does he do? Continues the conversation or starts a new one.
Unfortunately, I suspect I may fall or have already fallen victim to these same traits. I hate to talk on the phone as it is so I hope I have at least avoided those traits for now. Also, if my mother and mother-in-law happen to ever read this, please know I love you both dearly but as with all family you will always be a source of entertainment for me. By the way mom – get rid of those damn cats and stopping finding excuses to collect them.
Second Acts & Other Whims 