When I was younger, I avoided people who had drama and conflict swirling about them; the difficult-to-get-along-with people. Now in my second marriage, I have learned over the years from wife number 2, some ways to navigate these types of confrontations or squabbles, or whatever you call it. One big thing is to learn to discern people you meet and spend any extended time with, like co-workers or people in your church family. Listen to their stories they tell about their pasts. Ask them about their lives, get to really know them. You soon find out who you can poke fun with or who is touchy about things. If they have strong feelings about a subject, tread carefully. Like Via said, if they are heck bent on jumping off a cliff, don't get in their way. (Paraphrased) Learn the person before getting knee deep in the weeds with them, if you can. If you are forced into a situation with someone new, first thing is to ask them if there is anything you can do for them to make it an easier task. Show you are willing to work with them. There are some people who just don't work well together, like oil and water, they don't mix. You just have to allow them to be them and you be you. Keep the Holy Spirit on speed dial.
Excellent post, Big Moose!
It gives me food for thought, "allow them to be them and you be you."
God bless you, brother.