How to stand up while sitting down

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend an incredible event in support of Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel's national emergency medical, disaster, ambulance, and blood bank service. It was a deeply moving experience that opened my eyes further to the complexities of the region and the essential role MDA plays in saving lives.

One highlight of the evening was meeting Lior Raz, the actor known for his role as Doron in the Netflix series Fauda. However, what stood out even more were the powerful words of MDA’s Global President and Israel's former UN Ambassador, Gilad Erdan. His speech inspired everyone in the room to stand up for their beliefs with courage and conviction.

So, with that in mind, I thought it might be helpful to share some practical advice on how to engage in such meaningful discussions—especially at the Thanksgiving table this week, where friends and family might have differing views.

1. Respect Alternative Perspectives. Every issue has multiple sides. You don’t have to agree with every opinion, but a healthy conversation starts with mutual respect. Understanding this can pave the way for a more constructive dialogue.
2. Come Prepared with Facts. Facts are your strongest ally in any debate. Without them, arguments become purely emotional. Take the time to research and ensure your perspective is grounded in verifiable information.
3. Listen and Ask Questions. Instead of jumping to counter-arguments, ask questions. Seek to understand what shaped the other person’s view. You might learn something new—or find a better way to present your own case.
4. Know When to Move On. While some conversations can be enriching, others can spiral into frustration or hurt feelings. Recognize when it’s time to pivot to a different topic. (“How about those Patriots?” can work wonders!)
5. Enjoy the Food. Don’t let a heated debate overshadow the meal. Thanksgiving is about gratitude and connection—so savor the food, especially dessert!

The conversations around the Thanksgiving table might get a bit spicy, but the day itself is meant to be sweet. Take a moment to appreciate the good food, great company, and the many blessings in your life.

As always, I hope you found this post insightful. Feel free to share it with anyone who might benefit, and let me know your thoughts here.