There's a lot going on in the world today. Not to be a pessimist (and recognizing that increased exposure to the 24/7 news cycle and social media are playing a factor), but... it can all be a bit overwhelming. Happy news doesn't sell ads, so we tend to get coverage of events we wouldn't want to be in the middle of ourselves. All of that can lead to the perception that the drain is circling and that a giant meteor might not be such a bad thing.

I find the hospitality industry to be an interesting crossroads with all of that. An entire industry, an enormous chunk of the population, whose sole job is to sit you down and put forth the best combination of their talents and efforts to make you leave with a smile on your face. A group of people we pay to give us a good time.

And they have to perform. No matter what else is going on in the world or in their lives, they can't miss a beat. Especially because of tipping culture. Their livelihoods depend on it.

So over the coming months we collectively call "the holiday season", help spread a little joy back to all of them. Give that server an extra smile. Tip that bartender a little bit extra for their effort. They'll interact with 50 more people before the end of their shift, now with a little bit less weight on their shoulders. That one went well, maybe the next one will too.

I can't think of a better way to spread happiness.