When times are tough, it's a good idea to look for the silver lining. Despite continued dark economic news and the growing concerns for our planet’s safety, I think I see one. It lies in the choices we make and the differences we can make this year as one of our biggest gift-giving seasons comes knocking.

This season, evaluate your attitudes around gift giving.  In the process, consider alternative giving. I’ve come up with three alternatives, which should reduce your stress and enrich the whole gift giving experience.  You can find them in my recent article for The Georgia Straight.  Call it my gift to you.

I'd also love to hear any stories or ideas you have about alternative giving, so please feel free to add them to the comments.