Now that Thanksgiving has officially passed, Christmas is in overdrive. Although it’s referred to as ‘the happiest time of the year’, this season is also associated with stress and financial hardships. As children are anxiously awaiting Santa’s arrival, everyone else is spending approximately $130 billion on Christmas. This sum includes that sweater you’ll never wear and those designer jeans that cost an arm and a leg. Now ask yourself, what’s Christmas all about again?

Many people are constantly forgetting that the holiday season is about presence, not presents. A great way to show your presence this year is by volunteering at soup kitchens, donating to clothes drives, or participating in the Advent Conspiracy. Created in 2006, the Advent Conspiracy is an incredible movement that has changed the way numerous people view Christmas. The purpose of this is service is to spend less money and spend more time with people; this way you’d donate the money you didn’t spend to a worthy causes like charities.

Even the smallest donations could add up to long-term supplies of clean water for the thirsty. Instead of spending so much time and money on the perfect gift, spend this time in the company of those you love. Spread joy this year by giving to help the poor, the hurting, the lonely and the sick. In fact, even just sending a card to someone in the hospital could make a huge difference. This holiday season remember those in need and how the simplest donation could result in a lasting impact on someone’s life. If everyone around the world could realize how truly fortunate they are, it’d be a Christmas miracle.