DEAR ABBY: About a month ago, my husband and I decided to do our Christmas shopping early. We bought coats, ski pants, thermal socks and boots -- for homeless people.
I can't begin to describe the joy it gave us. Shopping had never been so much fun. Instead of worrying about sizes and colors, we simply bought warm, sturdy clothes. Since we bought everything at an outlet store, we managed to get about 100 items, including 17 winter coats -- for a little more than $1,000.
When we delivered the clothes to the local shelter, the manager was overjoyed. Winter weather had arrived the night before, and she had already given out all the winter coats. She had dreaded coming to the shelter that night, knowing she had no warm clothes to distribute.
Next year my husband and I will celebrate Christmas twice. The first time will be in July! Abby, won't you please let your readers know that "Christmas" can happpen any day of the year -- the joys of giving are rewarding beyond belief, and the need is always there. -- OVERJOYED IN EVANSTON, ILL.
DEAR OVERJOYED: Thanks for reiterating a homily that may sound corny -- but it is, indeed, more blessed to give than to receive.