When it comes to holiday stress, we all need to give ourselves permission to say "no." We don't have to attend every party, sign up for every event, or join in every activity. We've also got to set boundaries with the people in our lives and well and not feel the need to apologize for doing so.
No matter how into the holidays you are (or aren't) they come with a lot of stress. Travel, money, schedules, and routines in turmoil, that one really annoying brother-in-law - it can all add up.
Speaking of service...in 1736, Benjamin Franklin founded the Union Fire Company, the first fire company in Philadelphia, completely run and operated by volunteers. To be part of this groundbreaking endeavor you had to agree to furnish your own buckets for carrying water.