Silently Seething Susie's Politics - Just Jill, Sole Sister Ramblers

Silently Seething Susie's Politics - Just Jill

Just Jill is the creation of Jill Cohen Morris. Jill is an avid rambler and mother of two  from Toronto, Canada with a remarkable zest for life and a fabulous sense of humor.

Dear Just Jill,

It's everyone's favourite time of the year, getting together with family and friends. Sharing a drink or meal. Sounds perfect right?

Well not so much. Don’t get me wrong I love my family and my friends but we don’t all share the same political views. When I think about it, this is not a holiday issue this happens throughout the year.

I don't know how to get through a dinner without politics coming up and with politics comes arguing!

These differences have put strains on my relationships. I even avoid getting together with certain people I truly like but can’t handle their views. Most of the time I sit there biting my tongue when what I really want to do is scream at the top of my lungs!

How can I engage in conversation with my family and friends without setting off my flight or flight response? What’s a gal to do?

Sincerely,
Silently Seething Susie

Sole Sister Advice & Comments
  • We have a no politics rule at the holiday table. If someone were to start up, we would remind them in a friendly way.

  • I just got off the phone with my mum. Part of our conversation was about topics to avoid at the Christmas table this year: politics and the Royal Family.

  • We have a related Sole Sister JT's Tales from Trail post called Living With Sweet Tea.

  • Don't talk about politics is a good rule. Understanding where people are coming from and listening without judgment is also a good idea.

  • I love this NPR interview on this subject.
We look forward to hearing your advice for in the comments!

SSR doesn't endorse the advice, or content shared in this column. Our goal is to access the wisdom of our incredible Sole Sisters.


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