We hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving. To help achieve that goal, Michael Wade has crafted 10 rules to follow to help ensure your Thanksgiving experience is a happy one.

1. Thou shalt not discuss politics at the dinner. There is next to no chance that you'll convert anyone and any hard feelings that are generated may last long after the pumpkin pie is finished. Why spoil a good meal?
2. Thou shalt limit discussion of The Big Game. This is mainly directed at the men who choose to argue plays, records, and coaches while their wives stare longingly at the silverware. The sharp silverware.
3. Thou shalt say nice things about every dish. Including the bizarre one with Jello and marshmallows.
4. Thou shalt be especially kind to anyone who may feel left out. Some Thanksgiving guests are tag-alongs or, as we say in the business world, "new to the organization." Make a point of drawing them in.
5. Thou shalt be wary of gossip. After all, do you know what they say when you leave the room? Remember the old saying: All of the brothers are valiant and all of the sisters are virtuous.
6. Thou shalt not hog the white or dark meat. We know you're on Atkins but that's no excuse.
7. Thou shalt think mightily before going back for seconds. Especially if that means waddling back for seconds.
8. Thou shalt not get drunk. Strong drink improves neither your wit nor your discretion. Give everyone else a gift by remaining sober.
9. Thou shalt be cheerful. This is not a therapy session. This is not the moment to recount all of the mistakes in your life or to get back at Uncle Bo for the wisecrack he made at your high school graduation. This is a time for Rule #10.
10. Thou shalt be thankful. You're above ground and functioning in an extraordinary place at an extraordinary time. Many people paid a very heavy price (and I'm not talking about groceries) to give you this day. Take some time to think of them and to express gratitude to your friends and relatives. Above all, give special thanks to the divine power who blesses you in innumerable ways.

Ignore any one rule at your own risk. And if it helps, they're not just rules, they're also basic tools you can use to discover happiness in your life after your family's Thanksgiving dinner is over.

Image Credit: Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash