In the Midwest, my generation was raised to make eye contact and say "hi" or nod when another person entered your personal space. Hell, we didn't even have 'personal space' back then. When another person crossed your path, you would exchange "pleasantries". Often, pleasantries were just statements of fact. It's sure cold out. This heat it awful. Fine. For a stranger or an acquaintance.
But, with a relative, it's not fine. We're a lazy country; no one would argue that. I think we've also become conversationally lazy. I'm as guilty as anyone. We have large multi-generational family gatherings several times a year. There are nieces, nephews, cousins, et al, of all ages that you only see 3 or 4 times a year. Making conversation isn't always easy.
But if the best you can do is "exchange pleasantries" like you would with a stranger...don't bother. It's just lazy. Those of us with personalities that draw us to more solitary occupations may find these infrequent gatherings awkward. But in the future I'm going to make more of an effort. Or, there's nothing wrong with just being a listener.
