INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Agree that each of you will make a list of items you want that ranks the items in terms of priority. Place the items you want the most near the top. Keep the items you could live without toward the bottom. Meet up in a neutral location, like a quiet coffee shop, to go over your lists. It's likely that there will be some disagreement, which should be addressed calmly.  For example, maybe you both want the TV you bought together. See if your ex would offer a trade. Maybe you also both really like a particular coffee table, but your ex is a little more attached. Agree to let them have the coffee table if you can have the television set. For items you absolutely can't agree on, see if your ex is willing to sell the item and split the money. It's sad to let a pet go that you've come to care for, but remember to take the high road and do what's best for the pet. The pet should go to the primary caregiver. Whoever has the most time to care for the pet should take it in the breakup.  For example, you have a dog with your ex. You have a demanding job and are away for long hours during the day, while your ex works from home. It makes sense to let your ex take the dog, as they'll be able to provide it with the most attention and care. It can be hard to let go of a pet. If you and your ex are still on good terms, you might be able to do something like have visiting hours with the pet or meet up at a local dog park on occasion. It's okay to keep gifts your ex bought for you over the years. If they gave you an item of clothing or household device, that's generally yours to keep. However, if they gave you a sentimental item, it's best to return it. For example, if your ex gave you their great-grandfather's watch, this should be returned. If your ex is being very difficult, try to be the bigger person. Remember, items can be replaced. It's worth splurging on, say, a new television set if it means ending a prolonged argument and making a clean break from your ex. If your ex won't let go of an item, and is unwilling to compromise, let them have their way. In some cases, however, you may need to bring in a friend or even a lawyer to mediate. If your ex is insisting on keeping high priced items, which you legally own, it may be worth your effort to try to get them back.

SUMMARY: Make lists prioritizing items. Compare your list and find a compromise. Give pets to the primary caregiver. Keep gifts, but return sentimental items. Learn to take the high road.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: While it can be hard to be understanding in regards to racist beliefs, try to get inside your parents' heads. Racism is a systemic issue very prevalent in many societies. It is often subtle and many people are unaware their actions and words have racist undertones.   The way people of color are portrayed in the media is often subtly racist. Words used to describe people of color, for example, are often riddled with outdated and offensive terminology. This is a phenomenon that does not just occur in hate speech but in well-known publications such as The New York Times. Over time, a person's perspective can be skewed without their knowing it by the perpetuation of stereotypes in the media. While this does not excuse racism, it can help you better understand your parents.  Oftentimes, people are blind to their own racism. As already discussed, people get very defensive when it comes to discussions of race. Therefore, subtle racism often goes unchecked. Your parents may be unable to see their own racist viewpoints. You can work your best to point out your parents' racism, but try to understand how subtle racism really is and why it's so difficult to get people who harbor racist beliefs to change.  For instance, the media often demonizes black victims and can actually appear sympathetic to whites suspected of serious crimes, including mass shootings. At a certain point, you have to accept the fact that racism is a deep-seated belief system that's difficult to change. You should seek to develop a no-tolerance policy regarding racist comments, especially if discussing them with your parents takes an emotional toll on you.   If your parents try to bait you into an argument, do not engage. Acknowledge their feelings, and promptly move on to another topic. It is very difficult for people to change their ingrained beliefs. Sometimes the best thing you can hope for is that they will eventually evolve to become less racist. Angry words, incrimination, accusations, and withdrawal will be of no avail and will only fuel more resentment. Instead, if you simply tell your parents how much you love them and how much you appreciate everything they've done for you, they are more likely to reconsider their beliefs after they've had more time. After all, they love you as much as you love them. Also, try to recruit other family members who are more sympathetic to your beliefs, and have a conversation with them to see how they may be able to lend their support. Keep in mind it is very rare that people change their viewpoints, especially if they're set in age. It is very likely approaching your parents about their racism will do nothing to change the problem. However, addressing certain behaviors is still important. Racism is able to sustain itself because people often remain silent and do not want to force uncomfortable discussions. Silence is sometimes seen as an endorsement or acceptance of racist viewpoints. Make sure you make it clear to your parents that you do not agree with their point of view. While the conversation may end poorly, you still need to have it.

SUMMARY: Try to understand your parents' racism. Disengage in conversations that cause you discomfort. Recognize failure is likely.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: It is normal to feel extremely tired following a surgery, especially if you had a major operation or a general anesthetic. Spend time in bed and do only as much as you feel up to doing during these first few days. Pushing yourself too early may be detrimental to your recovery.  Avoid any heavy lifting or rigorous exercise during this time. Ask your doctor how long you should rest right after your surgery. This will vary depending on the type of procedure. As a general rule, it is important to get your body moving as much as possible once you start recovering from surgery. Movement will encourage blood flow and strengthen your muscles, making it easier for your body to heal. Ask your doctor how much you are allowed to exercise while you recover and what activities you should avoid.  Moderate walking is usually the best exercise to begin with while you are healing. If you spend time recovering in a hospital, asking a nurse or orderly for help walking if necessary. If you are not yet steady on your feet, you may benefit from using a walker or cane to help you keep your balance. High-impact sports, heavy lifting, and rigorous exercise can all cause strain to your body that may delay your healing after surgery. Listen to your doctor's instructions about recovery time and restricted activities. Depending on the surgery you have, you may have to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks or months until your body is fully healed. With major surgeries, your doctor will generally provide you with a specific diet to follow after your operation. Follow any directions or meal plans your doctor gives you very closely while you heal. Eating foods or ingredients that irritate your stomach or cause swelling may hinder your recovery.   Processed foods are likely to cause inflammation and stomach irritation. Foods like fatty fish, walnuts, almonds, flax seeds, leafy green vegetables, and turmeric can help reduce inflammation in your body. Many post-surgery diets are high in fiber to prevent constipation, which can cause you to strain and in turn hurt the site of your surgical wound. Lean protein like chicken or fish will help repair body tissue and boost your energy after surgery.

SUMMARY:
Rest for the first few days after your operation. Move around as soon as you can, with your doctor's permission. Avoid strenuous activity while you heal. Follow your doctor's diet recommendations to avoid complications.