I wrote this a while back but I thought I'd share it again...

Let's bring back a holiday season that focuses on sharing priceless gifts instead of one that means spending lots of money.

Can toys and expensive gadgets ever replace time that could be shared with our children?

Can we fill in the lost time we spend at work with video games, cell phones and designer clothing?

Sometimes, we forget what really matters in life and instead find ourselves working more and playing less.

Are we instilling values in our children that confuse money with love and material possessions with happiness?

Do we continue to live focusing on what we can get instead of what we can give? Or can we stop and look around at what we already have?

Family, friends, health and love simply cannot be bought. They are true gifts.

Spend some time with your family talking and listening. Have friends over not for a gift exchange but rather a get-together. Celebrate your health by bundling up and venturing out into the winter wonderland with a child. Give love to those who are without.

Make this holiday season one that includes gifts that cannot be bought or sold. Gifts that truly are the essence of the season.

Merry Christmas and have a safe, Happy New Year!