The holiday season is often a time to gather with those we love and care about. But sometimes, people feel compelled to gather with family despite personal differences, such as political or relationship tensions. So how can we keep the peace? 13News talked with author and empathy coach Rob Volpe about making sure disagreements don’t turn into all-out fighting. “The holidays are this time where people don't always feel like they have a choice whether to come together,” Volpe said. “And I think the conversations I've been having with people, part of it is actually realizing that you do have a choice. So if you feel like this is really a bad spot for you, then don't enter it.” Volpe said it’s essential to treat each other with respect and listen actively to understand the other person's perspective.