In our opinion for Tuesday — December 21, 2004

• Christmas shopping

Christmas shopping

The very short supply of Christmas trees this holiday season is creating a panic in Honolulu, according to news reports from the big city.

On Kaua‘i, small Norfolk pines, and artificial tress, are the choices left for those in need of a tree.

At this time last Christmas stores on Kaua‘i were selling beautiful trees for under $5, trying to dump the huge supply. Buyers from a number of outlets outdid themselves in ordering, with containers pouring into Kaua‘i full of trees. Shipments were given to the Salvation Army to give away.

This year, the Salvation Army could pay for a Christmas dinner for 100 with the proceeds from a dozen trees, if they were available to sell.

This lack of trees is making some consumers stop and think about the true meaning of Christmas. While the presents, trees and decorations brighten up many a life, the giving of yourself to others is what should really be behind a gift, not how much you expect to receive in turn.

We’ve had some nice surprises at The Garden Island this holiday season. Visitors have called wishing to help out the marching band heading to the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, Ca. A colorful Christmas card arrived with a throughtful letter from a senior who is a recipient of help from our daily Zonta Christmas appeal. Gifts of cookies are being shared, priming us for the joy of an upcoming Christmas dinner.

Thought is being given too to Kaua‘i’s men and women in the Armed Forces, especially to those headed for Iraq, or already serving in the Middle East. Their families are also receiving special – and needed – attention this Christmas season.

Hopefully holiday revelers will take the advice of the Mothers Against Drunk Drivers organization and be careful not just in driving, but in staging parties. Our “Advice from the Experts” column on the Sunday FYI page has been offering tips in this area.