How do you navigate family gatherings where your identity feels misunderstood or dismissed?

Family gatherings can be tough when our identities as leatherworkers feel misunderstood or dismissed. Many of us know that feeling of sitting around the dinner table, listening to comments about our craft that just don’t resonate with our passion or experiences. It can be frustrating when the work we pour our hearts into is reduced to just a hobby or an oddity. One thing that has helped me navigate these gatherings is to prepare a few stories or insights about my leatherworking journey. Instead of waiting for someone to ask or make a dismissive remark, I’ve found that sharing a little about what I love about this craft can open up conversations. For instance, talking about a specific piece I made or a challenge I overcame in the process can help them see the dedication and artistry involved. It’s amazing how sometimes just a little glimpse into our world can shift perceptions. Another approach that some of us have tried is to find a way to connect with family members who might share a similar appreciation for craftsmanship, even if they don’t work with leather themselves. Maybe they enjoy woodworking, pottery, or another form of art. Finding common ground can create a bridge, and sometimes, having even one supportive person nearby at these gatherings can make it easier to handle any dismissive comments from others. It’s like having a little ally in the room! It’s also important to remember that not everyone will understand or appreciate our passion, and that’s okay. Setting boundaries around discussions that feel invalidating can be a form of self-care. If someone starts to belittle what we do, we can gently steer the conversation elsewhere or excuse ourselves for a moment to regroup. Many of us have faced this, and it can be empowering to recognize that we don’t have to engage in every conversation that feels uncomfortable. Anyone else dealing with this during family gatherings? I’d love to hear how you manage those tricky moments or if you’ve found ways to connect with family that make it easier!