As we head toward Thanksgiving when family and guests gather for a meal, it is inevitable that conversations happen while you wait for the turkey, duck, goose, ham, or whatever protein you are cooking gets done.

Whether it is politics (hopefully not), the weather, health concerns, family or other topics, conversations need to be civil so the holiday isn’t ruined by arguments before or after the meal.

We thought we would offer these tips to help you have great conversations with your loved ones or friends on the holiday, or at anytime. These were found at https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/november/better-conversations-week-week-of-thanksgiving

1. Listen: While listening seems to be an obvious tool, it's essential to a good discussion. If you tune out and don't hear a question or another speaker's story, you might be missing out. Of course, if you've listened to the story 10 times before, be polite and allow others to hear it for the first time.
   
   
2. Ask a question: Around the holidays, there's usually someone new added to the group. Even if there isn't, there's always something you can ask to get a conversation started. For example, asking a cousin if they know Aunt Jo's secret to smooth mashed potatoes could garner stories, explanations, or even demonstrations. Anything could happen.
   
   
3. Longer answers: One or two-word answers tend to feel abrupt. Lengthen your answer by using a couple of descriptive adjectives or adverbs. Expand the answer to two sentences to provide elaboration. By elaborating, you might engage more than one person, and spur on new, more exciting topics.
   
   
4. Offer assistance: Whether it's in the kitchen or hauling chairs, conversations can begin with those enlisted to help. Busy hands allow a conversation to flow a little better, easing any nervous tension.
   
   
5. Share something new: When exciting news or changes in lifestyle occur, they're usually perfect topics of conversation. New hobbies, jobs, or travel generate topics of discussion.
   
   Hope you have great conversations and a Happy Thanksgiving!