I shared with my family back in November that I hadn’t planned on writing this holiday season. With so much going on, I thought I’d step back and enjoy the moment.

But then something happened the other day—an encounter that stayed with me and made me realize it was a story worth sharing.

We are familiar with the fact that this festivity season can bring out the best and the worst in all of us. It’s a time of happiness, togetherness, generosity, stress, long lines, and short tempers. Amidst the chaos, some moments can test our patience and kindness. I recently experienced one of these moments while standing in line at a busy home décor store.

The entire store was full of holiday shoppers, carts filled with decorations and gifts. I patiently waited my turn in a long line when a woman approached me holding a large box. She asked if I could inquire with the cashier about the price of her item. Without overthinking, I said, “Yes, go ahead.” I felt like it was the right thing to do—a small act of kindness during the busy seasonal hustle.

I was not thinking clearly, so what happened caught me off guard. Instead of simply asking the cashier for the price, the woman placed her box down, asked about the cost, and then pulled up her phone. She started asking for details about other items she was interested in from the store’s website.

I glanced at the line behind me; the looks said it all. Tired, frustrated shoppers stared at me, their expressions full of unspoken judgment.

The awkwardness settled over me like a heavy coat, my face growing warm. Like many others, I’m juggling a million things this time of year. The pressure to get everything done—to find the perfect gifts, decorate just right, and keep up with it all—can make even the calmest person feel frazzled.

So, in the middle of all this chaos, a small act of kindness can feel like a lifeline—something beautiful and simple that reminds us what matters. But I’ve also learned that even kindness needs balance.

Kindness requires thoughtfulness; sometimes, it requires setting boundaries to avoid inadvertently causing stress to others. This emphasis on balance can empower you to be kind in a way that respects others and yourself.

In my case, I acted on impulse. If I had paused momentarily, I might have considered the impact on the people waiting behind me. I could have told the woman, “You can ask your question, but it would be better to wait since there is a long line behind me.” That way, I could have helped her while also respecting the time and patience of others.

Why Kindness Matters, Especially Now

During this busy holiday shopping, it’s easy to forget that everyone around us is dealing with their challenges. The person who seems impatient may be rushing to pick up their child. The cashier who appears distracted might be working a double shift to make ends meet. And the woman with the box may need extra help navigating shopping.

I’ve seen that kindness means more when paired with mindfulness this holiday season. It’s not just about doing good things for others—it’s about being aware of how our actions affect others. Small, thoughtful gestures can lift someone’s day without adding to the weight they’re already carrying. We know that people’s frustrations come from their stress and have nothing to do with us.

As I spend time with my loved ones this season, I’ll carry the lesson I learned in that crowded store with me: even the smallest gestures, when done with care, can lift someone’s spirits and bring us back to what matters.

Isn’t that what the holidays are about—giving in a way that touches everyone around us?

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