The Session - Helping The Family Survive An Election; from KSBY.com

James 1:19

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.

Respectful Communication 

• respectful communication helps both sides gain perspective
• Look at the big picture. Elections will come and go, but family remains.
• Focus on shared values
• Empathize with your family members
• Agree to disagree
• Ask clarifying questions 
• Finding Common Ground: 

Identify shared values or goals, even if you disagree on specific policies. 

• Frame discussions around finding solutions to problems rather than solely focusing on blame or criticizing the other side. 

Election Season Stress from vcuhealth.org   from Joan Toppounce

• In their article on Election Season Stress, Peyton Lassiter, who specializes in family counseling, states that he believes our mental health depends on our relationships with our loved ones. That's why it's important to avoid stress and strife in those relationships.
• Political views can cause friction in relationships because they are intertwined with our values about what is right or wrong, healthy or unhealthy, reasonable or unreasonable, good or bad.
• Political views also expose the different worldviews between the younger generation and their parents. 
• Separate the sin from the sinner, the behavior or belief from the person. Discuss the issue without attacking the person.
• Avoiding conversations that appear to be headed toward a political charge is very important. That includes removing yourself from the room that is about to explode over a political issue.
• Boundaries help us stay in relationships. It is boundaries that keep it safe to discuss sensitive topics.
• Boundaries should focus on my needs and what I will or won’t permit, not what others need to do.

 Keep your marriage full of putting your spouse first

To start, make his and her lists. Later, bring the two together and create a master list that blends the best from both. Don’t be afraid to try new adventures. The main point is to make plans that both of you can anticipate together. 

Get that? Fun. Together. Repeat. Often.

 Focus on the family learning to communicate in a relationship-an example

Betsy is wondering about that. She’s hurt that her husband, Carl, seems to have lost interest in her. She interprets his lack of communication as evidence that he doesn’t love her. This puts her in a panic; she becomes needy and controlling, trying to force Carl to “talk about the problem.” This creates more pressure for Carl, who retreats further.

Carl is overwhelmed by Betsy’s need for conversation. It feels like a void that could never be filled. This is decreasing his desire to be intimate with her; he’s finding excuses to avoid even spending time together. He’d rather hang out with friends who are less demanding.

To reach Tom Russell, go to https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com.