The holiday season is now upon us once again. For most Americans, this means celebrating Christmas, even if they aren't Christian. And along with that comes holiday shopping. This is where the "rubber meets the road", so to speak.
Every year at this time, I marvel at people's attitudes. Short tempers, rude behavior, belligerent exchanges, fights over parking spaces and more. It never ceases to amaze me that so many celebrate the birth of one who sacrificed his life to preach love and compassion by acting in complete opposition to those ideals.
This year, I'd like to ask you to really think about that. Keep the purpose underpinning all that shopping in mind as you navigate the malls. Remember what it's all supposed to be about.
When others are in a rush, all aggravated, remember to offer a smile backed by understanding instead of rising up to match their frustration.
When it's your turn to be checked out, remember that the poor soul behind the counter is a person, too, and treat them the way you'd want to be treated if you were the one having to deal with eleventy-twelve rude shoppers an hour. Smile at them and say, "it's ok. Take a deep breath. Then, take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere."
When someone verbally lashes out at you, try responding with compassion. Say to them, "I'm sorry you're having such a tough holiday season. I hope it gets better for you."
In other words, really get into the holiday spirit. Then spread some of that spirit to those who so clearly demonstrate that they need it.
I think that, if you try it, you'll find yourself in a different world entirely.
Every year at this time, I marvel at people's attitudes. Short tempers, rude behavior, belligerent exchanges, fights over parking spaces and more. It never ceases to amaze me that so many celebrate the birth of one who sacrificed his life to preach love and compassion by acting in complete opposition to those ideals.
This year, I'd like to ask you to really think about that. Keep the purpose underpinning all that shopping in mind as you navigate the malls. Remember what it's all supposed to be about.
When others are in a rush, all aggravated, remember to offer a smile backed by understanding instead of rising up to match their frustration.
When it's your turn to be checked out, remember that the poor soul behind the counter is a person, too, and treat them the way you'd want to be treated if you were the one having to deal with eleventy-twelve rude shoppers an hour. Smile at them and say, "it's ok. Take a deep breath. Then, take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere."
When someone verbally lashes out at you, try responding with compassion. Say to them, "I'm sorry you're having such a tough holiday season. I hope it gets better for you."
In other words, really get into the holiday spirit. Then spread some of that spirit to those who so clearly demonstrate that they need it.
I think that, if you try it, you'll find yourself in a different world entirely.
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