I'm Dreaming Of A Green Christmas

My Twitter pal DeepakChopra (we once sat next to each other on a cross-country flight) was recently asked, "What is the meaning of Christmas?"

His lovely answer: "A return to innocence as the Holy Child in all of us."

Beautiful. And yet, during this season that's supposed to be joyous, I encounter way too many people with a serious case of the crankies, bemoaning the traffic jams they face as well as the long lines at the mall. Count me among them. In year's past, I've strayed well beyond the path and lost sight of the holiday spirit as it was intended.

Not this year. I thought long and hard about how I could simplify my holiday "To Do" list and create a wondrous, twinkley season sans the commercialized packaging.

Give Green Gifts

✵ Plant a fruit tree for a healthier planet. The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF) plants orchards at places such as public schools, city parks, low-income neighborhoods, Native American reservations, international hunger relief sites, and animal sanctuaries. FTPF has lovely certificates and organic apple tree grow kits that make wonderful gifts for friends and family.

✵ Giving a Fair Trade Certified gift creates life-changing opportunities for farming families and the environment around the world. Win-win!

✵ Seva (say-va) is a Sanskrit word for service. Seva Foundation was formed by Ram Dass in 1978 with a mission to alleviate suffering caused by disease and poverty. Turning your compassion into action is a lovely way to honor friends, family and colleagues during the holidays.

✵ Honor someone special with a donation to the National Resources Defense Council who tirelessly works to defend our imperiled wildlife and wildlands.

✵ Email a personalized Amazon Gift Card that can be redeemed for a b'zillion items online, no joke. No fees and no expiration either.

✵ Check out Tree Hugger's list of the Best Sustainable Subscription Boxes. You'll find even more creative eco-friendly ideas for the beauty junkies, techies, or fashionistas in your life.

✵ Another alternative for a green gift is to trade favors rather than purchasing store-bought gifts. Make a nice gift card and offer a night of babysitting, a home-cooked meal, or some gardening help come spring.

How are you simplifying and greening your holiday this year?