The Daily newsletter hasn't been "daily" because that flu shot I got in September didn't work. I've had the flu for three days,  I hate being sick, I'm in one NASTY mood and not to be trifled with. (The upside is the nice prescription that makes me go Wheeee.)

• To those who have the Christmas Blues and Have a tough time getting through The Holidays. Even though it's a Christian holiday, The Blues are not limted to them. Last week I was in a 7-11 where a guy with a turban was bummed about the holidays. It's an attitude. If I don't get exactly what I want or don't have a Christmas exactly like the Hallmark Channel or Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed in It's A Wonderful Life  - then I'm bummed. Turn it around. I've found that when I concentrate more on the Giving than the Getting - I enjoy it more.
• To those who HAVE a job and know someone who's lost theirs; that's where you can give. Many times we don't call because, "We don't know what to say." The Antidote; don't say much - Ask. Just ask how they're doing, tell them they're missed and ask what you can do to help. They'll be thrilled and will remember your Gift for years to come. There's a chance all of us could be a victim of the economy; it's good to be prepared. Read the next paragraph.
• To those who have LOST their job.  Hang in there. Now's the time for innovation. You might have to change industries or take a job that you would have never considered a couple years ago. Don't go to the classified section of the newspaper - but look around the net. There are companies in your town desperately looking  for people with your skills. If you have to take (what used to be considered) a Step Down, know that there are couple million other people doing the same thing. Don't Blame. It has no upside. Instead, try this:  

Concentrate on what we CAN give, not what we can't. If you have less money, you can still give some very valuable gifts. Examples:

• Give a kid some confidence.
• Give a smile, a compliment, a pat on the back.
• Give somebody some of your time and attention.
• Go see some very old person in a retirement home and give them a Good Listen. You'll remember that experience the rest of your life.
• You know the charities who give to the poor are hurting. If you can't give cash - give them some time.
• If you're a Veteran go spend some time at the VA or USO.  

Like many other things in life, I believe having a Good Christmas or Bad Christmas is nothing more than a Decision.

My best wishes for you.