by Julie Sewell-Schmidt

Created on: December 10, 2008   Last Updated: December 12, 2011

It was announced just a few short weeks ago that the United States has been in a recession since December 2007. Though most of us have been feeling the pinch in our wallets, formal acknowledgement that we were all in the same proverbial leaking boat elicited a small, if barely audible, sigh of relief. It didn't ease or eliminate our economic concerns, and the banks and auto makers (assuming the bail out is approved), aren't going to share their dough with us. With the holiday season quickly approaching, folks all around us will be looking for ways to have a joyful Christmas season during this troubled financial period. A sure way to experience joy and share the Christmas spirit is to give joy to others by donating your time, a little bit of money, and some basic supplies to those in need.

Many of us put too much pressure on ourselves to find and purchase the right gift for each friend and family member. The stress we experience overshadows the joy we could feel if we only made the choice instead to donate a small amount of money to a well-deserving charity. By donating in the name of our friend or family member, it will also give them an honor that can't be replaced with a sweater or pair of slippers. Knowing that a monetary gift to a children's cancer organization, a group for victims of domestic violence, or a non-profit looking to find a cure for autism or Alzheimer's disease won't break, get stuffed in a closet, or given to the local thrift shop can fill the heart with joy.

Volunteers are needed at homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and animal shelters. Volunteers can serve meals, donate toiletries for the adults and toys for the children, donate blankets for both humans and animals, clean animal cages, and relieve another volunteer for a few hours. This gives a glimpse into the world of those truly less fortunate than us and brings about a feeling of joy when we're able to provide for others.

Making a visit to a nursing home to spend time with the elderly and infirm brings great joy to the residents. The only thing you have to spend is time. While you may think you don't have a lot of it to spare, it's likely these folks have much less time than you. If play a musical instrument, ask the administration if you can sit and play for the residents.

Ask friends to join you in adopting a family for Christmas. It's heartbreaking for parents to think their children will have no tree, no presents, and no Christmas dinner. Adopting a needy family and buying just

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