In these last few frenzied days before Christmas, it is often difficult to stop and take some quiet time and think about the meaning of the season.

But whether we realized it or not, many of us in the Miss-Lou have been fulfilling the meaning of this season for many weeks, as we have pitched in time, talent and treasure to the many organizations needing help this year.

So many of those local organizations, such as Red Cross and Salvation Army, have been helping victims of Hurricane Katrina who are making a life &8212; even if it is temporary &8212; here in our community.

Other organizations are helping those of us at home who need an extra hand this season.

Throughout December we have tried to highlight those organizations and their needs through our Season of Wishes campaign. Many of you have given your time or money to these groups, but there is still time to give a Christmas gift to any of the organizations that do so much for so many. Christ urged us to see Him in each other, and that is just what these organizations do.

And for those of us who are able, we remind you that these organizations need a helping hand not just in December but in every month.

That is certainly one way to keep Christmas alive in all of us throughout the year.