Last year I was walking in the mall 2-3 days a week. I was there as the mall had transitioned into the holiday season. It was a zoo! Watching the changes during the holiday season helped me to additionally realize just how retail "puts on" so much to play into the materialism.

In my extended family, we don't exchange gifts. We do combine the monies we would have spent on Christmas and donate it to a local charity in need. We all feel better about giving in this way. It works well. There's less stress and we generally feel like we have contributed to our community.

Another way to gift one's community is to donate time to a local charity. Many of them need help in distributing food, wrapping gifts, etc., for the needy.

You may find it helpful to stay away from retail environments as much as possible.

I hope you find a way to enjoy your holiday season.


WC