Why Christmas Isn’t Easy for Everyone

I had finished all my Christmas preparations early and felt so accomplished—until my husband casually asked about wrapping paper. That’s when it hit me. I had used every last roll. So off to the store I went. As I stood in line, I noticed the cashier chatting animatedly with a customer ahead of me. The customer was full of energy, laughing and talking, and soon she tried to pull both the cashier and me into the conversation. I smiled politely but kept glancing around, hoping to spot a good deal on wrapping paper. Then, suddenly, she stepped right in front of me, covered her eyes, and said, “Like Stevie Wonder said—if I don’t see you, have a Merry Christmas!” She waved at both of us and headed toward the exit. As she walked away, the cashier smiled and said, “She’s such a lovely person.” “Yes,” I replied, “she looks like Dolly Parton.” She really did—blonde hair, a warm Southern accent, and a presence that filled the room. “Oh my gosh,” the cashier laughed, “you’re right—she really does!” That moment turned into a deeper conversation about how angry and mean some customers can become during Christmas. It took me back to when I was sixteen years old, working as a cashier myself. I remembered it clearly—yes, people really do get angrier during the holidays. The cashier and I both agreed. When she finished ringing me up and I walked out to my car, I found myself wondering why Christmas brings out so much anger in people. My thoughts drifted to my parents, who have passed away, and to my father-in-law. Christmas is never the same once the people you love are gone. Still, you try to make the best of it, because giving up isn’t an option. Deep down, I believe they would want us to keep celebrating. I thought of a coworker whose husband passed away and how Christmas changed forever for her. I thought of those who are terminally ill, who know their days are numbered. There are so many reasons people struggle during the holidays—so many unseen battles. That’s why kindness matters more than ever at Christmas. You never truly know what someone else is carrying in their heart or what they’re facing in their personal life. Sometimes, a small moment—like a stranger wishing you a Merry Christmas—can be a reminder to lead with compassion.