Now that the holiday season has officially begun and many of us are going to be visiting our families. Especially since the election is over, a lot of our differing views may spark heated debates, and well, there may even be some crazy familial fights that borderline on frightening. Here are a few things to keep in mind while conversing and enjoying family time.

1. Love is more fun than hating on your siblings.
2. Speak your mind and don't back down just because your cousin doesn't agree.
3. Don't cuss in front of your grandma.
4. Don't eat all of the mashed potatoes before everyone gets some.
5. Weed may not be legal in the state you're in yet, but wine is.
6. Homework is the most valid and understood excuse you have--USE IT.
7. Pretend to like football. Or don't. But it will be watched no matter what you do.
8. Give thanks for one another...even that ONE person that married into the family.
9. DON'T BE MEAN TO ONE ANOTHER.
10. Hug it out.

I encourage y'all to fight the urge to plug in your headphones and to debate one another with love. If you think a member of your family or one of your friends is wrong, tell them, but don't be evil; don't retaliate out of fear.