Celebrating a joyful Mother’s Day is what moms say they want, but it’s not always easy avoiding heated discussions – especially when family members have strong differences of opinion about everything from child-rearing, religion, politics, the war in Iraq and a host of other controversial issues.

Communications trainer Don Gabor’s new book, “Speaking Your Mind in 101 Difficult Situations” (Conversation Arts Media; $13), can help you converse happily at family get-togethers instead of getting trapped into quarrels or arguments you’ll later regret.

“Avoid ‘traps,’ by disagreeing without being disagreeable,” Gabor says.

When you hear an opinion that you disagree with, use one or more of these lines:

1. “I have a different view of the situation.”

2. “Let’s agree to disagree.”

3. I don’t think this is the time or place to get into a political argument.

4. “I think we more or less agree on the goals – it’s just our ways of getting there are different.”

5. “Our views probably have more in common than you might think.”

6. “I agree with some of what you say.”

7. “My experience is different than what you describe.”

8. “I’m not coming from the same place as you.”

9. “I see your point.”

10. “I don’t agree with you, but I forgive you anyway.”(with a smile)