THANKING EVERYONE...

A King f

or the People by Alex King When most of us consider this time of year, we imagine family gatherings, robust meals, carbohydrate-induced naps, songs of carolers echoing down our streets, familiar TV programs paying tribute to the season, and of course the exchanging of presents. Then, there's the gift that keeps on giving: leftovers. I appreciate those annual customs as much as anyone else, but I feel the need to suggest a new tradition. As we're surrounded by the people we love and care about the most, perhaps we should etch out a little time to discuss politics. Sure, it apparently goes against the rules. We're not supposed to broach certain topics when we come together for the holidays. The idea of doing so may fill you with dread, causing you to imagine arguments, food fights, and other calamitous scenarios. You may even worry that bringing up a particular subject will result in less people around the table during next year's banquet. I must ask several questions, however. When did it become the norm to think we can't share our opinions without arguments breaking out? How do we challenge, communicate, and shape our own values if we aren't taking the opportunity to do so with the people who are most important to us? And finally, if we are willing to do the work, could such discussions serve to strengthen our bonds rather than weaken them? Please don't get me wrong. My goal is not to distract from the true meaning of the holidays. What I'm hoping to accomplish, as we join together in celebration of shared beliefs, is a renewed infusion of those core principles into this country's political discourse. I'm not some bleeding heart or phony intellectual who prescribes that the woes of the United States, or the world for that matter, can be solved with conversation alone. It all takes work, but that work begins by challenging our own views in a legitimate attempt to find common ground with the views of others. It is important to listen deeply, ask sincere questions, and practice your own discretion. So, instead of arguing with the in-laws about which election was stolen, maybe address how both Republicans and Democrats are waking up to how easily compromised a president might be and why that is terrifying. And, rather than debating your cousin about where tax dollars should be spent, focus on the need for a tax system that doesn't compel any citizen to finance programs that go against their morals. Those are just a few ideas. Most importantly, try to appreciate the special people in your life… regardless of how your opinions may differ. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!