This is the holiday season that has everyone shaking in their boots. I'm not just talking about shaking from the cold.

Every family and friendships immediately following elections faces some kind of emotion, whether it be happiness, anger, fear, hope, stress, and many more. Even in a large scale sense, communities are impacted by the results of said election, which is fantastic as it shows that people care about their futures.

I will not state my opinion on the election of 2016, the candidates, or my social views here. This is not an article to bash or to steer you in any way, and it's actually not even an article meant to be political, just to clear that up.

Politics aside, there are many, MANY different world issues that everyone has different opinions on. This is the way the world works-- people see something they think is not right, they seek change, and they act upon it, hopefully civilly but that is not always the case. I think it is wonderful that we can live in a world where we can express so many beliefs and desires for change. Keeping in mind that I am speaking from a place of privilege, though, I know that for many minorities and lesser known causes it is harder for their voice to be heard. The constant changing of politics and social issues and tolerance has been especially rocking our world for the past century, and even in the past few years have we seen much change.

What does this have to do with the holiday season, as my title so states?

With the astounding amount of different opinions, it is difficult to have civil conversations about such topics, usually ending in feud, yelling, or even bigger problems. I believe it is fine for everyone to have their own opinion (so long as it respects the existence of others and doesn't dehumanize or belittle others), and that talking about it is also fine-- that's the only way people learn and things change, after all.

This year, I am going to stray from discussing politics or social issues in any way in a bad light around family. I think it is fine to discuss it at any other time, and I for one love talking about my views and what I think the world needs. I share many of the same views of my family, but there is also a lot of disagreement.

(I'm not saying abandon your views completely. Please keep fighting for what you think is right.)

I am not dismissing any of these issues as unimportant, as I believe it is extremely important to shed light on them, but I simply want to have an enjoyable holiday without any hate or harm. That is what the holidays should be about, at least-- enjoying time with the ones you love and spreading positivity and joy. Use the power that you have to spread good, not evil.

Rather than arguing over which candidate you like better, donate to a charity or to someone who needs it. Take the time to send a thoughtful message or see an old friend over coffee. You can make a difference this holiday season, no matter what holiday/s you celebrate and no matter what views you support. Support your family and loved ones and spread joy, like how the holidays should be. Save the politics for a more private discussion.