Q: Our family is politically divided, and this year, some of us will be winners and some will be losers. How can we set guidelines so that our holidays don't turn into Crossfire?

A: "America is a democracy, and we have a duty to have informed opinions and to challenge the opinions of others while having our own challenged. So go at it, but be fair, respectful, and civil."
— Jack Marshall, president, ProEthics

"Politics doesn't have to mean polarization. Agree that (1) we'll talk about ideas but not about politicians, (2) we'll find something constructive to say about every idea, even the ones we're trashing, and (3) we'll put a dollar for charity into a coffee can every time we forget points 1 or 2." 
— Rushworth M. Kidder, founder, the Institute for Global Ethics   

"Announce what a joy it is to be together, then add that "for the sake of harmony, I'm requesting that we discuss everything and anything this holiday season but politics." 
— Rudy Rasmus, pastor, St. John's United Methodist Church in Houston