The Christmas Spirit

I’m a traditionalist.  I still say Merry Christmas and send out cards saying the same.  Yes, I know not everyone celebrates December 25 in the same way.
Western society has many holidays and Christmas is but one of them.  Still, it would be difficult to disregard the outpouring of support to the least fortunate in society during the lead-up to this day.  I think of this as the Christmas Spirit and short of a natural disaster, this occurs mostly in December.
A Vancouver transit driver who has worn the famous red suit for the past 16 years was the opening story on the news hour when his employer told him that the suit had to go.  They backed down when an unanticipated outpouring of support left them with a public relations disaster on their hands.  Did his riders believe in Santa?  More likely, they just felt an emotional connection to a symbolic figure who receives pleasure from the act of giving.
As I reflect upon what is happening around our own community I’m warmed that so many people give generously of both money and time.  Individuals, businesses, community groups and churches all playing a large role in saying, “we care.”   It’s not forgotten that a great part of this generosity is also directed outside of our community to areas of the world with much, much less.
Quietly, I always admired those that give privately with little fanfare.  I know they are some of the most generous in society.  Still, does it matter if businesses and corporations gain a little recognition for their efforts?  I suspect not, as if the same effort was put forward to improving the bottom line it would be imminently more profitable.
For individuals, wealth is as much of a mindset as it is a calculation.  When you are able to give you subconsciously are saying that you are wealthy.  This holds true for any income level or provided that your assets are sufficient.  Therefore, the better you manage your own finances the more you are able to give and the wealthier and better you feel.
As I look out my office window someone just walked by wearing a Santa cap.  I notice, I’m smiling.
Have a festive holiday and Merry Christmas.