Feeling overwhelmed by the masses at the malls? Run down with the "can't find that d@mn gift" blues? That can only mean one thing. The holidays are right around the corner and you've waited till the last minute to shop. But, no worries, it's the essence of this magical time that counts, right? The holidays, whether it be Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanza or whatever your religion of choice may be, is about something deeper than rushing through the malls and dealing with disgruntled employees and miserly patrons. Personally, I do not celebrate Christmas or any other holiday in the manner it was intended. However, I do recognize that there is a joining principle about this season. If during the rest of the year people are hard edged and cut throat and this one day or several can loosen them up than I feel that is cause for celebration.

So, what I aim to say is this: Relax, take a look around you and see that you have something in common with those next to you. You are all are celebrating, in essence, the same tradition. All of you want a moment of peace to share.