Recently a priest at my church ended his homily with some advice on practicing kindness during Advent, Christmas, and Christmastide. To paraphrase one of his tips, he suggested that every time we enter a business, our workplaces, or even our own homes, we pause for just a moment and pledge to show kindness to all we meet.

His remarks brought to my mind Robert Burns’ “Auld Lang Syne,” that traditional song which ushers in the New Year:

For auld lang syne, my jo

For auld lang syne

“Auld lang syne” is a Scots term meaning “for old times’ sake;” “my jo” is “my dear.” The song bids us raise our glass and toast old friendships.

And what better time than the Yuletide and the New Year to extend this cup of generosity and consideration to others, both friends and strangers? After all, churchgo

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