When times are tough, it's a good idea to look for the silver lining. Despite continued dark economic news and the growing concerns for our planet’s safety, I think I see one. It lies in the choices we make and the differences we can make this year as one of our biggest gift-giving seasons comes knocking.

Think of the billions of pounds of paper and plastic, shipped across the world to go into landfills. The millions of unwanted presents gathering dust. The disappointment of receiving a gift that has no value or meaning. It's time to stop the madness and return to the true meaning of Christmas, if that's your tradition, or of a holiday you embrace.

I am a great proponent of giving and of receiving. I've written books on how giving and receiving enriches us all.

It is an important way to express love, kindness and appreciation. But hasn't everyone received at least one gift that was stuffed in a closet somewhere before being recycled or maybe even thrown away. And, unless you are the exception, you've given gifts that, frankly, are what my teenager would call "lame".

Read the full article here...