In recent years, Christmas has been the source of countless criticisms and censorship in an attempt not to "push" religion. In response, stores hang signs wishing everyone "Happy Holidays," and Starbucks re-imagined their Christmas campaign after customers were offended by their holiday cup designs. Though debates like these are rather insignificant in the grand scheme of the Holiday season, they serve as a reminder that although December is marketed as the "most wonderful time of the year," it isn't for everyone.

First, the holidays can be hard for those who are spending it alone. Of course, it's hard to know who is doing what for the holiday season, but if you can, make yourself available. If you hear someone is just "staying in" for the Holidays, consider asking them to coffee or over for Christmas Eve dinner. Even if they say no, at least they know someone is thinking about them and, if they change their mind, they have someplace to go.

Second, and much more common on college campuses, are those who are experiencing new traditions. Though they may be going home for the Holidays, their time at home is limited. They are in a space that no longer feels like "their home" because now it's just their parents home. Maybe Christmas is the only time of the year that they get along with their siblings, but this year they aren't coming home for Christmas this year now that "so-and-so" has moved out. While the Holidays are full of happy traditions, they are also full of broken ones. Though you can't actively make a person's sister come home for the holidays, or move all of their belongings back into their old room to make it feel like home again, you can offer support, help, and encouragement to get them through the holiday season.

Thirdly, and perhaps the most serious of all, is that the Holidays can be hard for anyone who has lost a loved one. Like in the examples above, for a lot of people's holidays are spent with family and loved ones. Traditions are built on this basis and just aren't the same when someone isn't there. Even if Christmas is usually their favorite holiday, it's easy to feel sad each year around this time when you are missing a member of your family. Once again, its impossible to "fix" the situation, however, you can provide love and encouragement throughout the season.

Lastly, there are millions of people in this world that are starving, living on the streets, who are unable to provide their family with food, nonetheless Christmas presents. For them, it isn't a "happy" season, but a constant reminder of their inability to provide for those they love. I encourage you to donate to the Salvation Army, Goodwill, Toys For Tots, whatever organization you can find. Bring food and presents to your local homeless shelter. Sponsor someone on the Angel Tree.

Though the Holidays aren't truly "the most wonderful time of the year" for everybody, they should be. So if you have the time, means, and desire, take a little extra time this holiday season to reach out to those around you and be there for them this Holiday season.