how to have a happy holiday

So what can a person do when much-loved relatives who voted differently come from near or far to fill your house?

....It is possible that everyone will agree that they have had enough of political arguments, and that no family member would likely change their mind, regardless of what is said. An agreement could be reached to keep this year's holidays from becoming black and blue because of red and blue arguments.

....Realize holidays can be stressors for everyone, including yourself. Family get-togethers can be emotionally, physically, and psychologically draining. So try to get enough rest.

....Resolve not to overreact.

..... Quiet diplomacy is usually best, like changing the subject.

....Try to head the process off before it begins by responding in a nondefensive way. Don’t argue with the other person’s point of view. Your strategy is to intervene before people become emotionally invested and tempers build. One way to intervene is to say with a twinkle in your eye

....At any holiday celebration ask everyone to share a cherished memory of holidays past.

...read it all: Surviving a Red-Blue Holiday Bash by William Webber, at beliefnet.com