Amidst the turmoil caused by this last election cycle, and the chaos created from attacks on foreign and home soils, emotions and tensions are high. And, with the impending holiday season quickly approaching, it’s extremely important to remember what really matters: family, friends, and community.

Thanksgiving and Christmas bring around the time where people stretch their wallets and deplete their bank accounts, focusing on the material possessions that one desires: diamonds, a new electronic gadget, clothes, toys, etc. We all have our lists; in fact, I’ve just finished writing mine.

Despite this material-based want of ours, we need to remember something important: material possessions aren’t all that important in life. You won’t be remembered in life for your elaborate things or your prized possessions; but you will be remembered for who you were as a person, how you acted, what you did while you were alive, and you’ll be remembered by everyone you encountered: family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, peers.

The holidays are the perfect time to let those around you know that you care. Yes, while gift-giving is a major part of this time of year, families often get together for a party of sorts to celebrate both the family and the holiday at once. There are those, however, who don’t get that liberty every year: our soldiers overseas have each other, but not their blood family; other families aren’t as well off as most of us, and can’t afford to buy gifts for one another, let alone afford to prepare a big elaborate meal on Thanksgiving or Christmas.

It’s up to us to start showing our affections towards one another more often, whether it be hugging your mother or father tighter, telling your friend just how much they mean to you, or helping out in your community. Go out and do something for someone else, not for your personal gain but simply to help them out. Remember who truly matters this holiday season, and instead of draining your accounts, give the gift of love and appreciation. Give the gift of acceptance and support. Give the gift of forgiveness and opportunity.

So, as you sit down to your table full of food, gather around the tree with an abundance of presents, come together as a family to light the menorah, or whichever religious or nonreligious practice you wish to observe, remember what really matters to you most. Consider how you’d like to be remembered as a person. Tell your loved ones how grateful you are for them.

This holiday season, spread love, and not hate. Give kindness and joy, not cruelty and anger. Ignore the differences between us and instead accept our diversities, for they make us stronger as a community. Most of all, remember those who have influenced you and who have helped make you who you are, and thank them. Give back this holiday season, and show the world what really matters most to you.