[Bernard54]

I normally don't mind going to church with my family. We usually go at a time that most people don't and sit in the back so it's basically a nice, peaceful experience.

BUT, Easter service is tonight, and it will last about 3 hours. It will be wall-to-wall people, very hot and stuffy. Everyone will be pushing against each other, patting you on the back and wanting to shake hands. This is a NIGHTMARE to me!

I've been stressing about this for a week. I actually thought about 'slipping' on the stairs so I could some how be hurt and have to stay home. But, I'm stuck.

Two of my kids are going to be a part of the festivities and I said I would go, so I'm obligated. My wife knows how difficult these things are for me; her only advice is if it becomes too much to go to the back or downstairs...but there's loads of people there too.

I could seriously vomit just thinking about this. But I don't want to let my family down. Perhaps I will trip getting into the car and break my ankle...one can only hope.

Wish me luck.

[Hellion]

Could you maybe step outside if things get too overwhelming? rather than other crowded parts of the building. I haven't had a situation exactly like this, but I've had times I've agreed to do something I really am not up for or that I really find too overwhelming at least at the time...but then I feel obligated because I said I'd go or whatever. So aside from stepping outside, maybe even going for a short walk to get some space during the event or whatever I also try not to obligate myself to activities I am not sure I'm really up for.

Perhaps its best you talk with your wife/family about this issue and explain its no offense to them but that crowded events like this make you feel sick so in the future you'd prefer not to participate...though don't know how accepting they are of your sensitivity in this area.

[Bernard54]

Originally Posted by Hellion

Could you maybe step outside if things get too overwhelming? rather than other crowded parts of the building. I haven't had a situation exactly like this, but I've had times I've agreed to do something I really am not up for or that I really find too overwhelming at least at the time...but then I feel obligated because I said I'd go or whatever. So aside from stepping outside, maybe even going for a short walk to get some space during the event or whatever I also try not to obligate myself to activities I am not sure I'm really up for.

Perhaps its best you talk with your wife/family about this issue and explain its no offense to them but that crowded events like this make you feel sick so in the future you'd prefer not to participate...though don't know how accepting they are of your sensitivity in this area.

Thanks for the response.

Yeah, I've already thought of going outside (or in the car) for a little while.

It's just a difficult situation. My family and especially my wife is very understanding. They normally know that I don't participate in activities where there will be a lot of people (or real loud noises, bright lights, etc.). This was just somewhat of a fluke since we usually would be going Sunday night when the place would be half empty, but someone asked my kids to be involved in this and my wife accepted.

My wife is still of the mind-set (after almost 20 years) that I can just somehow push through a thing like this. I guess no amount of explaining can really make a person understand how another person feels. I truly wish I could just 'make' myself do these things without totally melting down, but sadly, it's just not how my brain works.

Originally Posted by Bernard54

Wish me luck.

As the old saying goes: "break a leg!" or in your case, an ankle, LOL

[Bernard54]

Well, I made it and without any broken bones. And tomorrow brings an Easter party which I am expected to attend. But, at least there I can find some nice corner to hide in until it's time to leave. And then? I'm safe for 7 months. No more obligatory events until Christmas. Phew...!