I like prayer (by whatever name) to help me approach tough subjects. Reflecting gently and opening myself to unseen forces on the topics before I approach the conversation helps me sort and ease my anxiety. I am consistently astounded at how often the right words find me when I wait patiently for the right time to arrive instead of trying to force the issue on a controlled agenda.

But that is me. . .

Gentle support while you find what is right for you, Marah.

My parents know about mine too. Not in depth either. I typically just graze over the details. I'm scared to tell mine too. You can do it though! I have faith in you!
-R.

In my life, "family" has been the "f" word, sad to say. I backed away for 8 years after a violent attack in their house celebrating Christmas in 1992, and then gave Christmas with them another whirl for a few years from 2000-2010. But then there was another violent attack in their house celebrating Christmas again in 2010, so I've backed away for 10 years this time.

Who knows? We may still have a Christmas together in store, which would have to be soon because my folks are in the 80s now. I love them, but those violent attacks led to some close calls for me, so I have to be mindful of safety concerns. I do love Christmas, though, obviously, whether with family or not.

I think you should talk to your parents again about it and try and solve the family issues, inhibited feelings can be quiet but after a while they can be overbearing.