Scary Massage
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Ask Astrid
Posted on: 05/21/08
Scary Massage
My sister-in-law 'Sally' just gave me a gift certificate for a 'healing massage' and it's causing trouble in the house. Sally believes in spirits, the power of crystals, and that the world just doesn't listen to her. This 'healing' massage is an hour long torment of an 'indian' muse chanting and whacking me with pine bows. Sally believes I'm in dire need of this and would be much better off for it. My wife thinks that I should go along with it, just to keep Sally happy. I think it's nuts. What should I do?
-No Massage for Me
Dear No Massage for Me,
It sounds to me that you feel like other people's beliefs are being forced on you in this situation. While Sally probably had good intentions when she gave you this gift certificate, the thought of going through with the massage is clearly making you uncomfortable. And while there is something to be said for trying new things, you should try them because you want to, not because someone else is "forcing" you to do so.
I encourage you to find an alternative solution that will make you, Sally, and your wife feel comfortable. Maybe you can choose to have a different type of massage: one that Sally sees the spiritual benefits of and you find relaxing. You can offer to let your wife receive the massage in your stead. Or you can donate the gift certificate to a charity auction of Sally's choice.
Hope that helps!
Ask Astrid
Here to help.
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