“If we are to live together in peace, we must come to know each other better.” -Lyndon Johnson

We are complex, indescribable and sometimes confusing beings, but humans are always capable of inspiring awe.

At times I observe people and think, “Who in their right mind would even think of doing that?”

But then again, I wonder, “Who am I to judge another person’s actions? They probably think that what they’re doing is totally fine.”

We all come from different backgrounds, different upbringings and different life experiences. All of those things shape us into the people we are.

My dad always told me that everyone has a story, no matter how “normal” they may look on the outside. Since we don’t know each person’s story, we should be kind to everyone.

People, whether it is conscious or unconscious, judge others for acting different.

We aren’t perfect. In fact, no one is.

So, instead of judging people who are not like you (which is probably everyone since there’s only one you), try to understand where that person is coming from.

Everyone has a story, everyone has some hardship, and, yes, everyone deals with things differently.

Once you get to know people, you realize that they are imperfect just like you, so cut them a little slack.

They might dress differently, talk differently, have a different skin color, wear their hair outlandishly, or just seem outright weird, but, so what? Aren’t we all?

As we head into the holiday season, a time of parties and family get-together’s, let’s make this world a better place.

Make it a point to get to know people before you pass high and mighty judgment on them. You might find that they’re just like you and me.

If we all do this, maybe we can make the perennial Christmas dream for world peace come true.