People who have illnesses and conditions need to feel good about themselves, despite the cruel discrimination that still exists in our society. After watching "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and a family who were shunned by neighbors and schoolmates for having HIV and AIDS, it really moved me. On the show, they were given long-overdue support and respect. That sort of treatment should happen all the time, not only when their conditions are showcased on television. No matter what the condition, whether it's a terminal illness, acne, being overweight or other problems; we need to be kinder and more understanding with people who are having a tough time of life already. They don't need more grief in their lives. Here are some suggestions for helping others out. There surely are many more but this is to start the ball rolling.

Don't make fun of others for being or looking different.

For example, if someone has a bad breakout, is hunched over, can't see or is overweight, don't ridicule them. This is a well-known fact but it bears repeating, since many people still make fun anyways. Instead, think of what it would be like to have the problems they have. What would you do in their shoes? What would you need? The first step is to treat them like anyone else. Nobody likes to be singled out for problems beyond their control. Help someone out if you see them struggle. Talk to them like you would talk to anyone else. All it takes is a little earnest respect and understanding. We all need it, no matter what our own issues are. Nobody is perfect, we are all human, and humans are imperfect.

If you know someone with an illness, educate yourself about it

By knowing something about a friend's illness or condition, you are able to understand where they are coming from a little more. On the show I watched tonight, they said that you cannot get AIDS or HIV by hugging or kissing someone. I didn't know that. The children with these conditions said that they weren't allowed to use the restrooms at school because of the staff's ignorance and fear. Especially if you work in the public, such as in a school or daycare center, take the time to learn about different health problems like these, just so you know how they would or wouldn't affect you.

Don't assume anything.

If you see someone with acne, don't assume that they are dirty. Acne comes from the inside, and can be genetic. My family has battled it, so I know first-hand. So far there is no cure for it. There are other conditions out there like this, too. Don't assume that someone fat eats all the time. Some people have thyroid problems that cause them to gain weight, without even eating hardly anything. If a person is overweight due to overeating, don't assume that they are just gluttonous. They may be emotional eaters, who self-medicate with food. The older we get, the harder it can be to lose weight, too. Everyone has a story, so just withhold judgment and accept them as they are. Be compassionate, whatever the root of the issue.

Volunteer at a hospital or other residential facility for those who cannot take care of themselves.

Call a place that interests you and ask what kinds of volunteering opportunities exist there. Or, bring gift baskets for the residents for the holidays, after calling the facility to get permission. Volunteer at a homeless shelter. Doing something nice for others not only shows people that you care, but it makes you feel good deep down, too.

It is easy to get stuck in our routines and do nothing. Break your daily pattern and just do something for someone else, once a week. By showing compassion and caring for other people, we will help them to know that they are accepted, respected, and that they matter. If each of us does our part, even just a little, the world will be a better place. The time to start is now.