How did you open the conversation in the beginning? Might be helpful to share some ways to engage those who are neighbors, friends, or family. It’s been tough for me to even engage my family!
You have to start with some common ground in terms of seeing what’s going on in the world. Me, my brother, my friend, and a few others in the loop are Christian and conservative. We were talking about what we see might be coming down the pike and how to prepare. Our friend said he was selling his house and buying a farm with a well. One reason is that he was financially secure and was tired of the rat race. Another reason was “what if the SHTF.” We’ve gone to the range together, share moral and religious values, and know each other. From there, it wasn’t “can we come over if the SHTF,” it was “how do we work together.”
The key is common ground and awareness. Otherwise, there’s no real point in trying to have those conversations. At least, that’s how I see it...
I suggest an open ended question: “How do you feel about this ObamaCare?” “How do you feel about the national debt?” “What do you think about the rising price of gasoline?”
Then I suggest you listen. People like to be heard, not ranted at.
After you listen, then respond with your honest opinion. Give your reasons for what you think. If you are unsure about one thing or another, admit it. You don’t need to be a know-it-all.
If they keep talking, you keep talking. If not, then, you are done talking about it.
I recommend you don’t raise your voice or interrupt or get personal.
Hope these tips help. Open ended questions are the best. Asking people yes or no questions: “Are you worried about Obamacare?” “Do you care about the national debt?” “Does the price of gas these days worry you?” don’t let the conversation unfold. Ask the open ended questions: the how and the why.
How did you open the conversation in the beginning?
In my neighborhood, I mention the earthquake in Sendai Japan and how the effects were felt 230 miles away in Tokyo - food shortages, gas shortages etc. From there, a benign comment about being prepared will usually give you a good idea about how your neighbors feel about a lot of things. And also, who to keep an eye on when TSHTF.
Of course, you NEVER want to give TOO much detail on your vast stores of food and ammo...