This Year, The Haves Should Only Gift the Have Nots

This Christmas season will be, economically speaking, one of the toughest for many Americans. It is an opportunity for us to reject the orgy of materialism (and distill seasonal giving down to its essence. That is, to promote peace and good will among our neighbors, most importantly those in the most need.

From Huffington Post's Black Friday At Wal-Mart: The Cost Of Crazed Consumerism

Here are some experiential gifts you might consider giving this holiday:

1) Give an authentic acknowledgment to the people you love.
2) Look them in the eyes and tell them who they are for you.
3) Open up communication with someone with whom you've had a misunderstanding.
4) Apologize to someone you've unfairly judged.
5) Extend kindness to a stranger or offer support to someone and expect nothing in return.

This, I believe is the true spirit of not only this time, but of these times. As never before, we are called to reconnect with what matters. Let this holiday season be a beckoning for you to summon up the "greater angels of your nature," to come forward with the gift of your authentic presence and offer yourself as the priceless gift you are. Presence is a "being" thing. No credit cards or cash required.

2008 Holiday Giving Guide Database (courtesy of Charlotte Observer)