How can we enjoy Thanksgiving without politics getting in the way?

As a therapist who works with folks from a variety of backgrounds and political perspectives, this is an important question that comes up quite a bit, especially as we head into the Thanksgiving Holiday.

It was rewarding to speak with Axios reporter Maya Goldman about how important it is to not allow politics to drive a wedge between otherwise healthy relationships.

Family relationships are especially important. And if a relationship with a family member is otherwise healthy, it is not optimal to allow politics to drive a wedge and ruin a holiday as meaningful as Thanksgiving. If views are highly divergent and tensions are high, it is reasonable to decide that politics and world events will not be discussed this year. It’s also an option to agree in advance that everyone will be respectful and lead with curiosity and kindness.

Another consideration is to recognize in advance that people are operating in different information ecosystems these days with highly curated newsfeeds. Two otherwise bonded and compatible family members could find themselves living in completely different worlds, based on their media habits and algorithms. So the discussion can focus on llearning about each others’ sources of data and information, which could be informative and even illuminating.

If bonded family members cannot break bread and enjoy turkey together this Thanksgiving, then the chances of national unity are dim indeed.