Engaging in political discussions during Thanksgiving can help bridge the divides in our body politic and foster understanding among family and friends.
Thanksgiving has become synonymous with avoiding political discussions in order to maintain peace and harmony during the holiday gathering. However, this approach may be doing more harm than good. In an era of deep political divisions and social media-fueled rage, Thanksgiving provides a unique opportunity to engage in “in real life” conversations with loved ones, even if there are disagreements. By embracing political discourse at the Thanksgiving table, we can bridge divides, gain new perspectives, and strengthen our relationships.
The Impact of Social Media on Real-Life Interactions
The viral video of a Democrat berating a Republican volunteer during the recent election highlights the influence of social media on our real-life interactions. People often say things online that they would never say in person, but what if this divide is no longer true? Our virtual personalities may be seeping into our face-to-face conversations, further deepening political divisions. Thanksgiving offers a chance to break free from the confines of social media and engage in meaningful discussions.
The Power of Political Discourse at Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving provides a safe and trusting environment for political discourse. It allows us to hear different perspectives and be heard in return. By engaging in respectful and thoughtful conversations, we can challenge our own ideas and gain a deeper understanding of the issues at hand. For example, discussing sensitive topics like transgender rights and children with a classmate at a high school reunion allowed for a productive exchange of ideas. Despite differing opinions, the common goal of protecting children united the conversation.
Moving Beyond Stereotypes and Divisions
Political discourse at Thanksgiving can help dispel stereotypes and move beyond the divisive labels that are often assigned to those with opposing views. It is essential to recognize that not everyone on the right is a white supremacist neanderthal, just as not everyone on the left is infected with a woke mind virus. These extreme positions only serve to further divide us. By engaging in meaningful conversations, we can break down these barriers and find common ground.
The Goal of Political Discourse
The goal of political discourse at Thanksgiving is not to win arguments or convert others to our point of view. Instead, it is an opportunity to take stock of where we are as a family, community, and nation. By engaging in high-minded conversations, we can reflect on our collective progress and identify areas where we can improve. Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of the sacred compact our ancestors bestowed upon us, and discussing our handling of this responsibility is both appropriate and necessary.
Conclusion:
Engaging in political discourse at Thanksgiving is not only beneficial for individual gatherings but also for the nation as a whole. By embracing face-to-face conversations, we can bridge political divides, dispel stereotypes, and foster understanding. Thanksgiving provides a unique opportunity to reflect on our shared history, evaluate our progress, and work towards a more united and empathetic society. So this Thanksgiving, let’s set aside the fear of political disagreements and engage in meaningful conversations that have the power to bring us closer together.
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