This Christmas season let us remember that a “gift” doesn’t have to be a material thing … there are so many people in this world that are hurting and just need to hear something good … you can give that to them … and that’s pretty exciting!

With all of the bad going on in the world, I think it’s so important to be one of the good ones.

Especially around the holiday season, I love to see people smile … even if you just tell someone how much you LOVE that pair of gloves they’re wearing, their sweater … saying something so simple can make a person’s day.

Here are a few things I try to remember every day that remind me why these moments, these bouts of laughter, and this chaotic life is beautiful.

• Be someone who remembers that judging isn’t your job … don’t belittle people … everyone has a flaw or 2 … or 5… or 12 … and that’s okay!
• Be the person that strives to make others laugh and smile.
• Be the person that doesn’t tear people down, but works hard to build people up — even on your WORST day, making someone else feel special and important WILL make you feel better. That’s why we’re on this earth … to spread happiness! (I mean, at least that’s my belief.)
• Be someone who remembers that God’s got this. Every single thing that’s got you sad … he’s got it. You are a light in this world, so make sure you shine and don’t tear others down.
• Be someone who remembers it’s not about YOU … but about what YOU can do for others. Give lots of compliments, don’t be shy … be good to others. Be kind. All the time.
• Be someone who doesn’t think for one second about judging others; instead, pray for them. In the good and the bad, pray for them. Remember that everyone is fighting a battle, or even just a bad hour of the day. Pray for them, smile at them, and wish them a beautiful day.
• Be someone who doesn’t spend one second being negative about things that don’t matter; that’s one second of life completely wasted. Let it go, and give it to God.
• Be the person that remembers this: every time you smile, or you laugh, it makes someone else’s dreams come true. It’s inspiring and it makes other people happy, too.
• Be the person that knows that this life is all about what you can do for others. Live to make others happy, to make others smile, to make others feel that they can be better happier and kinder.
• Don’t be a mean human. Be unbelievably kind to everyone you meet. Smile at every stranger, because sometimes a smile is the greatest gift a person can give to another person. Sometimes that smile can make all the difference in the world. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen, and it’s beautiful.
• Always, always be the type of person you would want to meet. We are all brothers and sisters in this crazy world. We need to have each other’s backs. We need to not talk about each other, but instead be there to build each other up and make each other laugh.
• “I am sorry” — three of the most powerful words in any language. Say them often, and mean them.
• People come and people go; we get one chance to make it count. When you meet someone, it’s for a reason.
• Don’t let anyone dim your light. Always shine! If people are mean, they are most likely unhappy. Do not sink to that level; instead, be kind to them. Do not question yourself. If people are mean, always remember to be kind. It wins. Every time.

As the great philosopher, Snooki, once said “You do you!” I probably should have quoted something fabulous from Ghandi, but he didn’t say “You do you.” It’s simple. I love that. It’s true. Be yourself. Be a good human being, and spread the love.

Another even better philosopher, Mother Teresa, once said “Don’t ever let anyone come to you without leaving happier.” The happier you are with yourself, it makes others want to be happy too. Learn to love yourself, and don’t question who you are. Don’t let anyone else question it either.

And the most important thing to remember — and don’t ever forget it:

If you’re living and you’re breathing, you’re blessed. You are blessed. You are beautiful. You are loved. Most importantly, you are here. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year. Make a resolution you’re proud of, and do good for others.

Today is your day. Don’t waste one minute worrying; let God handle that. You just live, and love, and laugh and enjoy. Smile always, and thrive on the journey.

Katie Garner, who grew up in Salisbury, is a TV personality who lives in Columbus, Ohio.