The holiday shopping season is in full swing, but this one will be unlike any other except perhaps last year’s.

Businesses everywhere are dealing with short staffs and supply chain issues. Because of those, many businesses also must deal with unruly customers who have no patience and take out their own displeasure on people who have no control over what they’re experiencing.

Don’t be one of those people.

Certainly, consumers have rights and you should stick up for yours. Don’t let yourself get ripped off or treated badly by an employee somewhere falling down on his or her job.

But it’s important to separate that from legitimate reasons why your latte might take longer to prepare or your local store might be out of that toy you want to buy or that decoration you want for your tree.

If you come across that kind of inconvenience, have patience. Be kind, both to the employees and your fellow customers.

Be appreciative that the employees you’re dealing with actually decided to work, despite all the challenges workers face today, including a lack of child care, ongoing threats from the coronavirus, and those unruly customers.

Dig into your pocketbook and tip a little more.

If we all do those things, the whole season will go more smoothly.

And you’ll help your friends and neighbors working these holidays to have a merrier Christmas.