With it now being the second month of 2019, many people (including some of us on the Editorial staff) have found that the first month of the year has not been quite as refreshing as we planned.

And that’s OK; after all, January is just another month, and with these wacky temperatures, it is no surprise that there has seemed to be a general discomfort and tenseness building in a lot of people lately.

Added to the pressure of classes, there is all the reason for there to be some frustration, anxiety and/or bitterness lingering around campus.

And it can be hard. It’s easy to feel angry at other people and at the world in general because the first month of 2019 has been pretty annoying.

However, that is no reason to be a jerk to someone else. That is no reason to lash out at someone who doesn’t deserve it. That is no reason to put someone out.

It is easy to have bitter feelings right now because there are a lot of stressors around us at this point in time. As a result, there are not a lot of people who will go out of their way to do good for the sake of doing good.

But this is actually a great opportunity to be a light to others who are experiencing similar feelings. If you cannot see a light, be the light.

Our society has made us only want to do good things if we get something out of it. Most people seldom volunteer unless they are required to for an organization. People want to get something if they’re giving something.

But a sad thing about the world is that it will usually not give you what you put into it. At least, not in the way you are probably expecting.

That is why it is important to keep in mind that life is about much more than what you get out of it. Most of us certainly do not deserve the inconveniences that 2019 has thrown us so far, but we have the option to change it, or let it change us.

There is nothing negative that can come out of extending a helping hand to someone or sharing an encouraging word. In fact, by serving as a light to others, you might find your own world brightening a little.

Not to mention, we doubt that anyone who has sat on their deathbed wished they showed less kindness to others.

So do good deeds, and help other people. The world needs someone like you to help restore hope.