How to Talk Politics on Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving just days away now with family and friend get togethers planned, something that is probably on a lot of peoples’ minds is how to talk to friends and family about politics.

Some decide to just not to talk about politics.Others decide to set ground rules ahead of time about talking politics. And some, decide there is a way to talk politics so that it is helpful and not hurtful.

We see and experience stories and examples of divisiveness over politics every day. We can see the same images on TV and see those same images very differently.

And arguing about politics can damage relationships, get us depressed and drain our energy.

Do what do we do as we get prepare for the holiday?

Google “how to talk politics with family and friends” and you will find dozens of websites and blogs that offer advice.

Among the suggestions is to make the goal of conversations about politics not to change minds, but simply to understand and be understood.  In other words, the goal is not to necessarily persuade, but to find common ground. Studies among very diverse and opposing types have shown that it is possible find some common ground.

Most of all what they suggest is to remember to listen more, to show respect, to express empathy and to display humility.

We are all different in one way or another, but treating others as we want to be treated has always been the golden rule and still should be. Even if it’s hard.