Some say that Black Friday, the official start of the shopping season, is the kickoff. With the economic crisis that our country finds itself in, however, can we still say that? While some retailers, such as Wal-Mart, were successful, most were not, despite what some reports may say. Come January, the truth will be revealed, and many retailers will be left scrambling.

Hallelujah.

Don't get me wrong; I don't want anyone to lose their job. Unfortunately, this may be inevitable. And while this adjustment of our country's economic status may be painful, it's necessary. Americans, as a whole, are dying of consumption. The baby boomers have taught us how to spend beyond our means and neglected to show us how to save.

It's time we all made a sacrifice for the greater good, and in turn, evoke the true spirit of Christmas.

Forget the expensive gifts and outlandish requests. Ask for very little, and in lieu of spending a lot of money on material gifts, spend a lot of quality time instead.

My brother and I have decided to buy each other a gift certificate to the same restaurant, and then take our girlfriends out for a night on the town.

My parents bought everyone in my family tickets to a show in New York, followed by dinner.

This year, my girlfriend is paying for my portion of the Phillies 17-game plan that I split with my father and brother. I would be buying this for myself anyway, but when we go to games together in the summer, it will be the gift that keeps on giving all year long.

Now, I know that presents under the tree are fun and remind us our childhoods, so go ahead with caution. Keep it small and simple, and remind yourself that it isn't the presents under the tree that really matter, but the people that put them there.