Continuing from yesterday's post about relative dread.
And when I say relative dread, I mean literal relatives, not that the dread itself is relative, because it definitely is not.
The theft incident was handled with adequate grace. I did not blame anyone or become angry. I used a lighthearted tone of voice. I think I handled it well.
Also, no nagging about group photos or trying to force one, so that's a plus.
Only just when we were leaving was there an intrusive question. Just when we were about to leave! I had already dropped my guard, so of course, that's when they strike.
I hope my reply was adequately neutral, because afterwards, I was angry with myself for letting my guard down, and with them for thinking they had the right to impose such intrusion on my privacy.
There's also a non-zero chance that I'm blowing this whole thing out of proportion.
Then again, it's my privacy, and I get to set the boundaries.
I suppose I learned a lesson: never to let my guard down, even if the meeting is almost over, and have some sort of reaction ready to be used if ever such attempt of intrusion happens again.
Also... maybe the lesson is to avoid people who drain you of energy. Even if they're related to you.
Note to self: keep the next meeting as short as possible, and keep your guard up at all times.
