Now that kids are getting ready to head back to school is as good a time as any for a little reminder to treat people with kindness. You don't know what someone is going through, what their background is or what training they've had. It takes a while to get to know someone and figure out why they think or act or speak the way they do.

Treating each other with compassion and respect is not human nature anymore. Being combative and seeing things as one way or the other with no compromise seems to be the new norm.

After more than a year of a pandemic and a contentious presidential election, it's time for everyone to take a deep breath and just start being good humans again. Be respectful, be compassionate and try to at least understand that there are other points of view out there.

Let me assure you that I know the world is not all rainbows and butterflies. There is hatred and distrust and conflict all over the place. But we have a choice to move forward and make a difference or wallow in the past.

As our kids put on their first day of school outfits and get their supplies ready in those new backpacks, let's set a good example for them. It's easy to forget that kids are like sponges, hanging on our every word and action sometimes. If we as adults are setting a good example, maybe the next generation of politicians, leaders and adults will be one that gets along, or at least agrees to disagree and can live together in a productive society.