Politics & Conversation

The presidential campaign has more than just heated up, it is on fire, and we will all find ourselves in a discourse with someone who is intent on expressing their pick and why. In our mind we will be thinking they forgot the old rule never discuss politics and religion. It is exciting to experience the energy that has evolved in our country for this election and to witness the anticipation of the appearances and debates of the candidates. There are some who are so passionate about their opinions their heads might explode if they don't talk about it and discharge all the emotion. How do we handle these political conversations, keep emotionally controlled, and preserve civility?

• Don't react negatively, stay calm to diffuse an emotionally charged conversation.
• It is not about winning an argument, but to agree to disagree and maintain a future relationship.
• Be a good listener even if you don't agree. This communicates respect.
• Don't interrupt until the person is finished makng their point.
• Don't take things personally if the person is not in agreement with your opinions.
• Responding with questions can sometimes get your point across without engaging the other person into a debate.
• Avoid feeding into personal attacks that fuel defensiveness.
• Offer your opinions wth grace by your tone of voice, facial expression, and choice of words.
• Add humor to lighten the conversation.
• Change the subject if things get too heated by directing the conversation to another topic.

It is wise not to dump your opinions and views about controversial subjects on someone you just met or in an environment of unfamiliar people. We are blessed to live in a country where we have the freedom of speech, and the freedom to choose without fear or repurcussion.

"Whoever guards his mouth and tongue,

keeps his soul from troubles."
Proverbs 21:23