Dear Beloved Family Members,

I love you all. That is no surprise. I know some of us have a difference in opinions, and I respect that. Not everyone is going to agree on EVERYTHING. That's what makes this country great.

Holidays are the time for families coming together and rejoicing in togetherness! Let us not forget that.

With everything happening in this country right now, it is very easy to become separated by opinion. It is important to keep this in mind as we gather around the dinner table and start talking about how our years have gone and what is new in our lives.

I am home for a week, and I am excited to see all of you. I don't want any tensions around the table. I want to be able to enjoy our visits and the lovely meal prepared for us.

There will be some clear elephants in the room. Yes, I am recently "out-of-the-closet." Yes, some of us voted for Hillary Clinton and our President-elect is Donald Trump. And yes, the future of our country is unpredictable at the point from all sides. Now, when we are all together enjoying the company of one another, is not the time to discuss this. We are meant to be merry and happy. We should talk about how juicy the turkey is or how creamy the potatoes are. Let's talk about any new movies out in theaters or new relationships blooming in our lives.

Keep the peace. Keep the happy. Leave the politics and criticism for after the holidays when we are just hanging out watching TV or just at a normal gathering where arguments are inevitable anyway!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Signed,

Your family member who wants to keep the love!