The holidays are approaching.

Retail workers are just trying to do their jobs. They don& #39;t set the prices. They don& #39;t get to choose whether your coupons work or not. It& #39;s not their fault the thing you want isn& #39;t in stock. Be kind to them.

Traffic will be bad. Be patient.

The holidays are traumatic for some people. Don& #39;t let them get you down, but don& #39;t judge them for not being as happy as you are.

The holidays are the happiest time of the year for other people. Let them enjoy themselves, and don& #39;t try to force your gloom onto them.

Not everyone celebrates the same holidays you do, or celebrates the same WAY you do. Be respectful of other people& #39;s beliefs. Even better, ask people about what they celebrate and how. Diversity is beautiful.

Some people don& #39;t have anyone to celebrate with. Be a friend.

The holidays are for giving. If someone does something nice for you, pay it forward.

Be as charitable as you can - but remember that the Salvation Army is full of hate. Consider giving elsewhere: buy that food package at the store. "Round up" when asked. Donate to St. Jude& #39;s.

Just... slow down and take a few deep breaths. All of these things are really things we should be doing all year - but the year& #39;s end is a good time to check ourselves and refocus.

Be kind to one another. Above everything else, be kind to one another.