By Dr Bill Maier It’s that time of year again! Time to fight the crowds at the mail while you burn another hole in your credit card! After all, isn’t that what Christmas is all about? Well, not exactly! I’m not sure who convinced us that Christmas is a time to shop till we drop, and run up huge bills in the name of goodwill. Isn’t there a better way to celebrate this holiday season? I think there is. This year, why not break the cycle of stress and materialism by giving gifts that really count! Spend some time volunteering with a charity, or taking meals to the elderly. Instead of rushing to get Christmas cards in the mail, take time to send some handwritten notes to friends you haven’t seen in a while. Don’t let Orchard Road define how you do Christmas – make it a time of relaxation and reconnecting with those you love. Isn’t that what Christmas is really all about? This article was featured in Today December 1, 2009.