You can’t swing a scripture bag without hitting someone talking about this excommunication drama. Regardless of your stance, concerns or opinion, you, like me, may be looking for ways to avoid the discussion.

You see that ultra conservative, ill-informed Relief Society sister heading your way as you pick up your mail.

The lovable ward liberal stops you in the grocery store as you pick up your non-caffeinated beverages and green jello.

Your coworkers surround you, the only Mormon they know, at the water cooler to ask your opinion.

That super weird mission companion posts 10 different articles and then shoots you a Facebook message.

Is the issue pressing? I guess so. Does it involve me directly? Heck no. Do I want to get sucked into an inflamed and unproductive argument/discussion/hostage situation? Hard pass.

Instead of talking about the polarizing current events, here are some topics that can save you in the hallway outside of nursery

• I read online that Elder Holland is going to start a weekly talk show! (not true, unfortunately)
• Start talking about doing Crossfit and eating Gluten Free – they’ll sprint away.
• My dog just had puppies. Do you think they get to be together in the afterlife?
• I wonder if it’s appropriate to use Cinnamon Swirl bread for the sacrament. Like, what if the ox was in the mire?
• Have you watched the World Cup?  Which player with an unpronounceable name and anger issues do you like?
• Is it still sinning to watch a rated R movie if it’s edited on TBS??
• Should we sing the additional verses at the bottom of the page when there are more than 4? Discuss.
• If you could convert any celebrity, who would it be??
• Initiate a brag-off, one-up chain of food storage inventory

If all else fails ask them their opinion about Obama vs. Romney in 2012 and RUN.