All They Want For Christmas Is...

So the holiday season is finally here. And what do we do to celebrate this tremendous occasion? Buy frivolous things in bulk, of course!

But I digress. Christmas is a pretty awesome holiday. Every year we always look forward to it and we attempt reflect on the year's milestones with our loved ones. That's if we're not knee-deep in newspaper ads or watching Christmas specials on television, of course. But regardless, this is the precise time to remember what's truly important in life.

It's not about the Playstation 3's, the iPod's or the ugly sweaters your grandma makes you every year (but admit it, you secretly really like them). It's about being thankful for everything you have in the here-and-now and giving to those who are unable to.

We have blown Christmas up into a business and a commodity rather than a celebration of what's important in our lives. Sit down, relax. The mall isn't going anywhere and you don't want to lug those big bags like a pack mule anyway. Instead, have a cup of hot chocolate and reminisce of holidays past. Plus, you don't have to get a gift receipt for that.

But despite the joy of the season we experience, we often take that for granted. We must remember those who don't have that luxury this time of year.

Instead of rushing into the store to get the "best prices" on materialistic things that may be used once or twice (if that at all), take a dollar or some pocket change and give it to a charity in front of the store every time you walk in. It may not be much (it's not like they're asking you to pull an Angelina Jolie or anything), but it goes a long way, and you can feel good about helping someone less fortunate out. Because that's what the season is all about, right? Right.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national unemployment rate is currently at 10 percent with a total of 135,000 jobs lost monthly. That means a lot of people won't be able to afford a Christmas this year.

As being a victim of this recession (twice!) and a victim of the seemingly unpredictable Unemployment Benefit Program, it's definitely hard to provide on meager wages set by the California government. But despite that, I'm thankful that I've managed to get back on my feet and am able to give a little bit of Christmas cheer this year.

Every Christmas I try and do a gift donation to a charity, like The Salvation Army Angel Giving Tree, and make someone's holiday a happy one. While looking at the wishlists this year, it's incredible that the simplest things are on the top of their Christmas list. Everything from a cartoon character toothbrush to even socks is what these kids want more than anything. It's also enlightening to me because we often take these things for granted, when some are struggling just to get the necessities.

So just remember not to be a Grinch and pay it forward. Not only will you be putting a smile on your loved ones' faces this Christmas, but you'll make others smile too. And happiness is one of the greatest gifts that you can give to others and yourself.