The Takeaway
- Wanting to be included in the holidays doesn’t make you needy — it makes you human.
- Asking clearly (and kindly) beats dropping hints or stewing in silence.
- Offering help — not just your presence — makes you part of the solution, not the stress.
- A little humor can soften even the trickiest conversations.
- If plans don’t work out, don’t take it personally. Celebrate with friends, neighbors, or chosen family instead.
- You matter. Whether it’s around the dining table or across a video call, your presence is a gift.
When Thanksgiving rolled around last year, Linda found herself standing in the baking aisle at Kroger, staring at a can of cranberry sauce like it held the secrets of the universe. Her kids hadn’t mentioned any plans yet. No group text, no “what are you doing this year?” Not even a casual hint.
She didn’t want to be a pest. She also didn’t want to spend the day watching Hallmark movies and eating a frozen turkey dinner for one.
It’s a feeling a lot of us know all too well: How do you get invited to the holiday gathering without coming off as needy… or worse, a holiday hitchhiker?
The good news? You can absolutely nudge your way into the celebration without shame, manipulation, or guilt-tripping. It’s all in the how — and a little humor doesn’t hurt, either.
