Are politics still off-limits?

I don't know where or when I 'learned' that it was impolite to talk about politics, religion and finances at the dinner table. But, I can remember thinking it made sense. Those topics can become argumentative and thus - make someone lose their appetite. Plus, if you're at a dinner party with strangers, you don't know if your views will offend them. So, it's rude.

But, with everything that's going on in the world today - is politics still a topic that people avoid? And if they do...how?! If you bring up any topic - health, environment, social justice issues, etc. - all roads lead back to politics these days. And, it seems so awkward to talk about these topics without mentioning the elephant in the room, so you just want to be like, "Go ahead...just say it." Just like that - the 'no politics' rule is out the window.

What did not talking about these topics really ever accomplish, anyway? More small talk? More discussing the weather, TV and tales of the past? Yawn. So, maybe it's time to open up the dialogue over the turkey. Maybe the pepper in the potatoes doesn't have to be the only spice at the table. Besides, we're evolved humans, so shouldn't we be able to digest our food, as well as the differing opinions of others, at the same time?

Thrilling get together...truly.

With our busy lives nowadays - it seems the only time we have to stare at each other's faces instead of our phones and laptops - is at the table. So, instead of retweeting the latest article that made us roll our eyes, liking the most recent Facebook post that dropped our jaws and forgetting about it once the forks hit the napkins - why can't we connect with each other in person, about things that really bother/interest/annoy/worry us?

Yes, I think some people can get way too out of hand when it comes to talking about topics they're passionate about - and if that's you - it's time to reel it in. Count to ten, remember you're an adult and if the third glass of Chardonnay is known to make you cray-cray - limit yourself.

However, I guess I wouldn't recommend attending your next dinner party and jumping right in. Maybe don't scoop your peas on your plate and be all, "So how about that a**hole, Trump?!" Perhaps, if a topic comes up that you're interested in discussing, you ask "Is this a topic that anyone has a sensitivity to?" and gauge it from there.

I mean...unless you're totally fine hearing allllll about your uncle's latest doctor visit and learning about how amazing Gina is finding her new barre class to be.

THAT is when you need the third glass of vino.

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