Prickly Porcupine

A friend says something that he shouldn't. Your brother points out a detail that embarrasess another family member. Worse still, you may lack a bit of tact and be a little silly yourself.

Everyone gets themselves involved in similar scenarios, often unintentionally.Question is, how do we remove ourselves from them? On the spot, it's a tall order. Hence this post.

Hard as it is, we try not to flinch when we encounter a prickly porcupine of a situation. Addressing it lightly, with words like "Ok, that was a bit awkward, but we can start again," will ease the tension somewhat. Then, of course, be the ever skilfill tightrope walker and change the subject as adroitly as possible. As far as we can, we try to develop a little resilience by forseeing potential awkwardness traps.

Enjoy these Haikus.

Sharp spines that prickle

The skin flushes a bright red

Mind starts to fumble

Spot the sharp spines

Mouth opens to speak on sight

Avoid the sharp pricks

The sharp spines in sight

Voice should be a different tone

Pricks are swept away.