So very relevant in today's society in the USA...I find that my students often arrive to class with various issues. The issues can be their car not running, misunderstanding in relationships or even babysitting care. I approach them with a little quote (Anticipate the Good... or something from a famous person...like Henry Ford who said...Whether you think you can or whether you think you can't...you're RIGHT. I stress to them that they CAN...to never give up or give in. After that...they usually settle in and do the work required. Often them approach me after class with a smile or words of thanks. I tell them that we ALL have "stuff" but we CAN manage it & be productive. It works...