Every family has that one relative that cant stop forcing their controversial political stances down everyones throats.
Heres how to deal with them and keep the holiday intact.
If you and your family lovetalking about politics in a civil manner, carry on.
Were not here to get in your way.
Or when someones niece lectures everyone on how they need toreduce their microaggressionsto stop global warming.
If one person insists on flapping their mouth and causing problems, heres how to deal with them.
This isnota guide on how to win an argument.
Wealready have one of those.
Instead, we want to keep the peace and enjoy the holiday, not indulge the conflict.
If you find someones beliefs appalling enough, you’re able to cut them out of your life.
You probably dont invite any KKK members to go see a movie with you, for example.
Maybe they were invited because theyre important to the host.
Maybe theyre here because, despite your clearly sage advice, someone you care about is dating them.
Maybe someone just didnt want them to be alone for the holidays.
Its kind ofthe point of holidays, isnt it?
Before you respond to someone who starts an unwelcome political discussion, remember why theyre there.
Despite your differences, you both agreed to share a few hours and a meal together.
Even if they were invited by someone else, they matter to someone whose company you value.
Or, to put it more directly, you candeal with it like an adult for one day.
In reality, its a lot more like someone offering you a month-old muffin.
You dont have to take it, and your life will probably be worse if you do.
Likewise, just because someone makes a political statement doesnt mean you have to respond.
Not only because it encourages them to continue, but because now therestwopeople involved.
One persons beliefs yelled into a vacuum is just a rant.
Two or more people and it becomes an argument.
Not engaging can feel like losing.
Especially if you have a really cantankerous person who sees yourunwillingness to argue as proof theyre right.
However, remember your real objective: to prevent the discussion in the first place.
If they shout their ideas at you, and you dont engage, you win.
Have Plenty of Distractions on Hand
Thanksgiving already comes with a few built-in distractions.
Here are a few ideas:
Watch a movie.Football is nice, but its not for everyone.
On the other hand, the right movie can appeal to anyone.
Best of all, when youre watching, youre not supposed to be talking.Usually.
Heres a list of ten ofthe catchiest songs, according to scientific research.
Because science always succeeds in stopping an ill-advised argument.
If you dont want to engage,end the conversationand talk to someone else.
Theyll either find someone else thats willing to listen, or drop it.
Talkaboutsomething else.A little rudeness can go a long way.
If the conversation is coming up at the dinner table, change the subject.
Rudely, if you have to.
They might even leap in to help you out.
This can be a delicate balancing act, but it can also be liberating to take charge.
Remember, the one person who justhasto share their political views isnt the only person at the table.
This is especially important if youre the host.
And besides, having fun with people you care about iswhat youre there for.
Keep the Booze to a Minimum
Wait, come back.Okay, yes.
However, alcohol also has a tendency to loosen lips.
No ones saying you cant have a drink so you’re able to deal with that crap.
Just dont turn the holiday into a drunk political smackdown.
Howyou drink is just as important as how much you drink.
Ask Them to Stop Directly
Its good to open your home and welcome everyone on the holidays.
We can accept and love each other, in spite of the disagreements that so typically define us.
Okay, so maybe you shouldnt use that phrasing.
But if one person is becoming particularly problematic, its okay to ask them to stop directly.
Weve already covered plenty of strategies onhow to deal with someone who has overstayed their welcome.
Just be respectful, but firmly insist that your family get to enjoy their holiday.
For the conversations you just cant help, learn how to duck out gracefully.
Remember, again, your goal is not towinthe conversation.
Your goal is toendit.
The more you listen, the more the person talking will believe their rant is welcome.
If youre planning to get out, get outfast.
Direct them away from negativity.A good amount of political ranting comes from being dissatisfied.
Its a time of thankfulness, good cheer, and all that fun stuff.
It shouldnt be too hard to find a positive topic.
Have something more important to do.This onessupereasy to do during the holidays.
Babies are crying, food is burning, decorations are falling off the walls.
Something, somewhere needs fixing.
Get out of the conversation by explaining that you should probably go help wash the dishes.
Not only do you duck the rant, but youre helping out, and thats always nice!
Of course, when all else fails, it’s possible for you to also take the hit.
Like we said in the beginning of this article, its one day.
We can always go back to being angry tomorrow.
