Try A Little Kindness...

Holidays are wonderful.  Holidays can be stressful.  Holidays can be overwhelming.  Holidays can be depressing.  Holidays are a hodgepodge of emotions and feelings.  Many of us are out shopping and trying to get so much done on top of our never ending list of things "to do".

Black Friday brings out the worst in many and we see news stories which make us all shake our heads in disbelief.  Out on the road ways there are folks rushing to their child's daycare or play or perhaps just shopping or going to work or the hospital to visit a sick relative or friend.  People can be so rude.  Sometimes we all have moments.

Hold the door open for someone behind you.  Let that one driver out into the traffic lane who has been waiting for so long.  Don't try to beat someone to a parking place and remember, it all will work out in the end.  Try a little kindness.  If we all stopped and tried to be a bit kinder, smile at a stranger or helped another just a little, the world would be a better place.  (It will also bring your blood pressure and stress levels down.)

Check on friends who have loved ones in the hospital or are facing their first or second holiday without their precious child, grandparent or parent.  Just let them know you care.  Remember your neighbors and bake a batch of cookies or even buy that dreaded Fruit Cake to give them - it is the thought that counts.   (Just don't be surprised if you receive it as a gift next year from the same neighbor!  Again, it is the thought!)

Remember this time of year is about giving and goodness.  This is the time of year about kindness and faith.  Enjoy or find peace, you will never have this holiday in 2014 again.  Make it memorable. 

My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness. ― Dalai Lama XIV