How My Family Argues About Politics Without Hating Each Other

Thanksgiving used to be a war zone. My uncle watches Fox all day. My cousin sends Bernie memes. Two years ago, plates were almost thrown. So we made a rule: no national news headlines allowed. Instead, we talk about specific problems. 'What do we do about the pothole on Maple Street?' 'Should the high school start later?' It sounds small, but it works. Because nobody yells about potholes. We also use a talking stick like kindergarteners. Embarrassing? Yes. Effective? Also yes. Now we actually finish dessert together. You don't have to agree. You just have to listen. Try it next time someone brings up 'the state of the country' at dinner.