Thanksgiving initiates us into a magical season of
celebrating the joy of life. Who doesn’t love a fall feast, followed a month later by presents and
Christmas carols? As dear ones gather around the table, whether the celebration
be large or small, let’s be sure it is punctuated with happy conversation.
By now everyone knows to stay away from politics. If
you must introduce your political views, do so strategically, diverting
attention as you swipe the last turkey leg. Rare is the household in which
every member of the family agrees on every issue, and if they do, they will still
be vehement about it. Raising the specter of politics is like inviting a riot
to your table. Just don’t.
Steer conversation into more savory places. Begin by sharing
things the family is grateful for—sharing those silver linings is important.
Have you ever seen a silver lining? They occur when a cloud blocks the sun, and
by shining behind the cloud, its edges are illuminated. Silver linings
only happen when there are clouds in life, which tells us that amid the deepest
gloom there is always something to invoke a spirit of gratitude.
Here are some ideas to get you thinking:
- Share something you appreciate about the person
on your right. - What’s your favorite Thanksgiving dessert?
- Name the person who inspired you most this year.
- What Thanksgiving tradition do you enjoy the
most? - My favorite thing about Thanksgiving is…
Once everyone has shared a blessing, take charge of the
conversation. Prepare a list of topics ahead of time. What about those
Chiefs?! I visited with ____ yesterday… If you run out of items, you can
always exclaim, The gravy this year is so flavorful! Everyone will
hasten to agree. Real Simple offers several ideas to keep the ball rolling.
Focus on others around the table. In each life have been a
share of achievements, travels, joys, along with plans for the future.
Sometimes it is awkward because, well, shouldn’t we know all this already? I
mean, these people are family…but the truth of the matter suggests
otherwise. Sometimes we get caught up in our own lives and dramas, failing to
take note of the lives closest or dearest to us. It’s okay. Just take the time
to remedy the situation.
But…just for kicks and grins…let’s say an argument does
break out. It used to be over allegiances to sports teams, but this year it may
be something else entirely. How do you break up the quarrel and restore
harmony? Spark Notes suggests bringing in the celebrities. “I will take it! I will take
the ring to Mordor, though I do not know the way.” I love this one: “A plague
o’ both your houses!” You might stand and wave your fork in the air: Stop this
madness IN THE NAME OF YOUR KING!” If you plan ahead, snap open your phone and
play some thunder: “Lo, enter the three witches…” Beware!
If famous movie lines don’t stop the conflagration, be
direct. “No talk of guns or politics until after dessert.” “I would rather hear
about what’s going on in your life!” “This doesn’t feel productive.” As a last
resort, fill your plate and head to the kitchen. Make sure you have the pie
sequestered. It’s okay to remove yourself from the discussion.
The best strategy of all? Focus on Thanksgiving. You cannot
go wrong there.
