Breathe deep and exhale slowly.  

 Vape? 

 Never 

 Focus on small talk and laugh off everything else. Have 13% or more beer 😂 

 I hate small talk, but it’s all that is allowed as they are all too f’ing brainwashed to have a decent convo. And i don’t drink so I’m going to remember every vacuous inane comment they make 😂 

 Thoughts and prayers 

 🤙🫂🙏 

 Add vodka 🤣 

Also, remember that you have to pop out to do that thing that you forgot to do, just as they arrive. 

 No booze is my new holier than thou mantra 🎉 ….. dull 

 That’s precisely where you’re going wrong and why you have to live your life through me and other fabulously wealthy cruisers 😂 

 You’re right ! How did i not see this ?! I look to you to give my life meaning. Mike, you’re a genius, not a very sober one, but a true life guru. Guru Mike 🙏🎯😇😂 

 Hic 🥴 

 😂🫂 

 ever heard of Byron Katie and her "The Work"? it's basically an approach to see a "problem" situation from a different POV. 

what if what you're "dreading so" was a totally joyful experience instead? what would "magic" (or mischief) you need to bring to the day to make _that_ your outcome? "what would this be like if it _wasn't bad_?"(TM)...

I'm not suggesting that you engage everyone in all-day rowdy poker hands, but perhaps try _something_ no one expects and everyone will enjoy. be the one who shifts the tone, who heals the mood. amaze yourself. and your relations... 

 I like your suggestion but I’m at an event so I’ll just grin and bear it 🤙