In light of the recent Presidential election, there's been nonstop chatter about anything and everything political: Donald Trump’s wall, Hillary’s emails. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram – basically any type of social media that you’re on has been filled with opinions, biases and personal takes on the election. It seems like this week especially, it’s all anyone and everyone has been talking about (rightfully so). It’s no secret that this election has created a massive divide between the people in America even more than it has in a long time. Unfortunately, election season is back to back with Thanksgiving. Those same family members you got in a Facebook fight with over Trump’s hate speech will be sitting across the table from you. Your widely known conservative aunt that refuses to talk politics unless you agree with her will be baking the pumpkin pie you’ll so quickly scarf down. Your seemingly budding liberal little sister will be on the other side of the room, silently being offended by someone looking at her the wrong way. This Thanksgiving has the potential to be quite the disaster. Here’s how to survive political talk with your relatives this Turkey Day:
1. Avoid it as long as possible
Yes, it’s probably going to happen, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still try to avoid it. Start out with something upbeat and positive! A simple, “How’s your job going?” or, “Tell me more about your new dog!” or a, “When are you gonna get married already?” can really go a long way. Not to mention, you’ll have an insane amount of delicious food all around you, so a lot of the time your mouth will hopefully be full or you’ll be talking about how full you are. That takes away from some political talk time, too.
2. Keep it civil
The last thing Mom wants is a screaming fit in her kitchen when all she’s trying to do is baste the darn turkey. You are not ten-year-olds fighting over the last shovel in the sandbox. These are important and real issues, and it’s important that they’re discussed civilly.
3. Respect each other
Respect is so important in any kind of conversation, political ones especially. If you’re younger or a millennial, it’s likely that you’ll be having this conversation with an elder. Respecting your elders is an unwritten law that goes way back. Showing consideration for differing opinions and thoughts is the most mature way to handle these hot topics. Don’t put someone down for their right to their own opinion. Have thoughtfulness for people even if they don’t have it for you.
4. Listen
So many people spend so much time talking and arguing their own point that they forget to listen to anything that the other person is trying to convey. If you actually try to understand why someone thinks a certain way, you will thus have a better understanding of the person themselves, and hopefully a better recognition of their character. Who knows, you might even find something you agree on if you listen well enough.
5. Appreciate and give thanks
Thanksgiving is all about reflecting on all of the things you’re thankful for. It’s about gathering and spending time with your family to eat a succulent meal together. It’s about coming together and appreciating one another. All of these people are your family, remember. Family is the people that love you no matter what mistakes you’ve made, how smart you are or even what your political views are. Don’t lose sight of that in the midst of something as miniscule as a heated discussion, because I can guarantee they’re just as thankful to have you in their lives as you are to have them.
