Search Helium

Home > Relationships & Family > Family > Blended Families

The challenges of living with an extended family

by Sweetpea

Created on: January 09, 2007   Last Updated: May 01, 2007

Living with an extended family can have it's pros and cons.

Being brought up with Asian manners, it is natural to be polite, especially to the elders, or in-laws. But to what extend?

Pros:
You do not have to decide what to eat for lunch and dinner. Of course you can if you want to, but do not have to crack your brain doing so everyday.

You can help out with the laundry, dishes and vacumming occasionnally.

You do not have to personally worry about the household items and groceries.

Generally, you can be half an irresponsible person if you want to.

Cons:
On getting up in the morning, you cannot assume to be able to sleep in. When the older generation gets up with the birds, they may not expect us to do the same. However, it is not polite to greet them Good Afternoon.

On the kitchen issue, you may be 'reminded' to keep the kitchen utensils where they belong, and not use a scorer on the Jamie Oliver frying pan. Basically, nothing is yours.

On laundry, whether you like it or not, your clothes will have to go in with the others, minus the intimates.

On bickerings, you may not be able to scream your lungs out, or slam on the door, if you have an argument with your spouse. You can only swallow your anger and frustration.

On manners, always in check during your waking hours. You may not dig your nose or peel those dry skin on your heels while watching TV. And oh,

On watching TV, you may only watch your choice of channel when they are all asleep. And no blasting your stereo.

On nightwear, you have to be modest. No walking around without any underwear. You may take that chance in the middle of the night though.

Looks like the cons outweigh the pros. It is mentally challenged. Unless you don't give a hoot. But then again, you may have a new problem with your spouse. Worst case scenario, both of you may have to move out.

By the way, did I say that was bad?

Learn more about this author, Sweetpea.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Helium Debate

Cast your vote!

Has the destruction of the extended family contributed to climate change?

Click for your side.

215160

Featured Partner

The Responsibility Project

The Responsibility Project is the brainchild of Liberty Mutual Insurance. As an insurance company, we like responsible people. Because people who believe in doing the right thing don't just make better people, they make better custome...more


CONNECT WITH US

Read
our blog
Helum for writers

Write and get published
Share with other writers
Polish your freelancing skills

Join our active writing community
Helium Content Source for Publishers

Quality articles from proven freelancers
Exclusive rights, fast turnaround
Brand engagement, business blogging -- our writers do it all

Get custom content today!

INFORMATION


Helium, Inc.
200 Brickstone Square Andover, MA 01810 USA
#