NAS: Surviving parties

Linking up with the Not Alone Series again! Last one until the holidays are over!

Surviving events/parties as a singleton

The holidays are coming up! Family parties, friend gatherings... and you're single. How do you "cope"? Any tips or tricks?

Oh, this is always a fun topic. I think if you go into the events expecting the questions, it can make it a lot easier to get through. I've read articles that provide you with all sorts of witty, sarcastic comebacks for when this topic comes up, but as much as I would like to use those, I don't think they usually end well!

I find that usually just calmly answering the questions and moving along in the conversation is the best tactic. And even agreeing with them when they say things like "Well, those guys don't know what they're missing!". Instead of moping, if you answer with confidence in who you are, it becomes slightly less annoying!

There are definitely the harder questions though that eat away at your insides: There is the ever classic "Well maybe if you weren't so picky..." or, "Maybe you should smile more!" (yea, I get this one all the time). My usual response (depending on who is asking me) is to either use it as an opportunity to evangelize and explain why I am waiting and what I am looking for in a relationship, or just tell them I'm not in a place to be dating right now and that is why I am not. That is not technically lying, because if we were in a place to be dating, we would be dating because God would see that we and mystery man would each be ready for His plan to unfold.

As far as going to friend parties, I usually try to make sure I have a friend to go with just for moral support and so it is less awkward if people are in pairs.

Anyways, my advice is to just keep your chin up and don't let anyone steal your joy! You know in your heart who you are and what is going on between you and the Lord. Remain confident in His plan and say a little prayer if you're having a rough time. Maybe we can offer up these little annoyances for perseverance and patience in our future vocations.

I look forward to reading what everyone else has to say on this topic and I hope everyone has a blessed holiday season!