Can political conversation be an act of love this Thanksgiving? In the wake of a tumultuous election, that seems impossible. But consider how my students typically talk with others about hot topics.

It's not uncommon for them to find themselves with family or friends where someone drops political bombshells, igniting conflicts. In the past, my students would endure in silence or wind up in emotional arguments. But now, using their training, they take a new approach. When a family member or friend says something provocative, they calmly suggest private conversation over coffee. Typically the other agrees. There, using their training, they notice their family member or friend gradually become calmer, more respectful and more attentive.

Surprisingly, the student's counterpart becomes more open than before, more comfortable acknowledging the student's points and more collaborative. They even want to have more conversation later. In short, my students turn heated political discussion into acts of kindness and understanding.

Typically, my students and their friends or family members are amazed. "This was the best conversation we’ve ever had," they often report – "we felt closer afterward and want to have more talks like it." They’ve done it on every conceivable explosive issue with counterparts worldwide, regardless of culture.

How do my students do it?

Mainly by using a simple principle and three simple words. Together, they can help our families, friendships, holiday........

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