Thanksgiving is a time of giving thanks, usually over a meal with your family. It is a time when all gathered can share experiences during the past year that have caused them to feel grateful. However, sometimes the conversation can become a real turkey.
For some of us, Thanksgiving can mean mashed potatoes, gravy, pumpkin pie and four excruciating hours with the family. Here are some ideas for keeping the conversation going or changing direction, if it becomes inappropriate for the entire table:
- Invite friends to join you. Outsiders tend to keep family members on their best behavior.
- Invite everyone to talk about a memorable Thanksgiving. That “lost in the snowstorm” saga may seem hilarious after a few years.
- Take a quick look at the news that morning. Find a fun and frivolous or ‘feel good’ story to comment on at the table. “Kitten Comes Home After 20 Years” would be a good choice.
- For a change, actually listen to somebody you usually tune out -- and ask questions. Besides surprising the person, you might be able to head him (or her) in a direction that turns out to be entertaining.
- Most of all, do whatever it takes to be pleasant. And remember it’s your mother’s job to criticize.
Putting a little communication planning under your belt -- before it gets too tight – can keep this holiday an appetizing occasion!
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