We Need a Little Christmas

Surely I’m not the only one who could use a little Christmas spirit this month. 2007 has been a tough year: Southern California has been ravaged by fires, causing thousands of evacuations; the streets of Los Angeles have been terrorized by drug-abusing starlets and pop singers; and there is still no clear front runner for next year’s presidential election. I’m definitely ready for some holiday joy and can already feel the tangible excitement in the air, as decorations are being hung, calendars are filled with party invitations, and my bank account shrinks accordingly. Regardless of religious beliefs or secularism, gift giving is a meaningful practice in all cultures. The Frontiers staff has tried to make this easy for you with our annual gift guide. This year we suggest many environmentally-conscious options, as well as some that support our local economy and are available only in SoCal. If you still need ideas, I suggest you consult the Human Rights Campaign’s 2008 “Buying for Equality” guide, which is downloadable at www.hrc.org/buyersguide. The guide will point you to companies that support equality and fairness to our community.

Despite the frivolity that accompanies the holiday season, it’s not unusual for many of us to come down with a nasty case of what Dean Martin wistfully sang about as “the Christmas Blues.” If you’re one of those afflicted, I urge you to read Frank Salamone’s article on page 58, which offers many strategies to beat back the scourge of depression.

As always, I welcome your feedback. Write in (to letters@frontierspublishing.com) to let us know what you think.

Yours,

Jeremy Kinser
Editor in Chief