Rural/Farm Life

But, I think the thing with neighbors is that if you are kind and helpful, but avoid talking politics and religion, then you can coexist. And they would save your life if you needed it.

We live in the country and are pretty well surrounded by conservative Christians. There's mainly one family that we hang out with and I can't imagine how poorly life would be without them. We rely on each other. They are true Christians and our friendship has enriched both our families.
Like the 1WorldHope says, just skip certain subjects, and there you go! blockades removed! Then be generous, helpful and interested in their lives. The father has this genuine spiel when introducing himself, too. He says whenever you need a hand, I'm always willing to help out if I can. He's a skilled small engine mechanic and people from all around bring stuff to him to fix. He won't take money. They aren't "transactional" like the felon running for resident; it's a beautiful tradition of generosity and good will.
We rarely visit empty handed.