To the editor: Yes, we should all try to be more empathetic and humble when talking about politics as a family at holiday get-togethers, and throughout the year. However, it’s not always that simple. (“Don’t Panic This Thanksgiving: You Can Survive Political Disagreements“, Opinion, November 27)
Today, one in two adults is separated from a loved one. according to a national survey that my company, Harris Poll, introduced shortly after Election Day. While the main explanation for these breakups is what someone close to them said or did, one in five people attribute it directly to political differences.
Just over half of those separated because of politics want to reconcile to some extent. But most say reconnecting is unlikely, with one in five saying they never want to reconcile. Our survey shows that even a death in the family or the intervention of a loved one is not enough to encourage most people to reconnect.
So yes, let’s try to be less judgmental towards loved ones if this avoids a new family fracture. Just because political leaders are increasingly mean and downright hateful doesn’t mean we have to be too.
Will Johnson, Chicago
The writer is executive director of the Harris Poll.
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To the editor: I would like to share my uplifting Thanksgiving experience.
I was about to check out Smart and Final in West Hollywood last week when the young man behind me caught my eye. He said, “Excuse me, but can I pay for your groceries?” »
What? For what? I thanked him but said no, that wasn’t necessary. I’m 82 years old and I wore a hoodie and sweats. I am thin. Do I look poor? Or strange?
He insisted, explaining that it was Thanksgiving and he just wanted to do something nice. The controller was watching and she spoke up: I should let him do it.
Before I could do anything, he brought his phone to the top of the screen and clicked the button to pay. He explained that he was considering paying for the groceries of whoever was in front of him.
I asked his name; It’s Ryan. This gesture of unsolicited generosity and kindness – especially in this time of fear, division and rage – is very remarkable. Ryan deserves praise and thanks.
And thank you to the Times for providing a space to acknowledge that.
Wendy Tucker, West Hollywood