It is now December and winter has fully arrived in Cleveland. As I was going home one night from work last week, I noticed how we say “stay warm” as a way to say good-bye. It’s nothing new, I simply started thinking about it and I like the sentiment. It’s such a kind thing to say with many layers to it I never fully considered.

Obviously we say it because Cleveland gets cold. Already we’re around freezing and you definitely need to bundle up before you go outside. I will say to strangers, “stay warm,” as a end a transaction at a store or finish working with a client. I say it when I’m talking to my family, friends, or coworkers because I know how much the cold air stings once you step outside. It makes me imagine a nice picture of these people cozy in their homes, safely wrapped up in a blanket as they watch television while sipping a preferred hot beverage. By saying “stay warm,” I’m really saying I hope you’re comfortable and happy, which then fills me with warmth as well.

I was even thinking about how “stay warm” can apply to your attitude and how you interact with others. It’s up there with being kind and something I feel fits this holiday season. One of my favorite things about this time of year is how we survive the changing of the season by filling ourselves up with the joy and love we have for others. I love buying my family and friends gifts because it means I get to just think about the people who matter in my life and what makes them special. My thoughts and love towards them warm me up and makes me happy. I may not be the biggest fan of the cold, but I will always be a fan of supporting those around me and finding ways to show I care.

So this season, I hope you remember to stay warm. Even if the world is harsh and reality cold, I hope you find your warmth inside. Share it with others so that we may all enjoy each other’s company and happiness. As much as the cold might seep into our bones, it only takes a blanket or hot chocolate to make that feeling dissipate. Let us through our actions and words be our own warmth. Together, we will get through another winter and we will create lasting happy memories while we’re at it.

Stay warm.