iBece.org

As we put the finishing touches to our home for the upcoming Christmas celebrations, I can’t help notice the overflowing stack of gifts bulging from under the tree. What’s more, these are just from my immediate family - three of us. The other seven family members who will be joining us tonight will all contribute to the collection. Thousands of dollars are represented here, and across Australia, the NSW Business Chamber estimates $6 billion have been spent on gifts in the past month. It seems the march of commercialisation progresses relentlessly each passing year.

While all of this giving is well-intentioned, both the Bible and Buddhist teaching speaks of gluttony and the ultimate dissatisfaction of material possessions. One wholesome alternative to buying Uncle Stevo another pair of socks is Karma Currency:

Instead of giving platters, socks, photo frames and other useless gifts our initiative allows companies and individuals to give the gift of Charity Gift Vouchers. This Charitable voucher can be sent to families or friends, customers or colleagues, empowering them to give the donation to the charities they care about most. In short; our aim is to make karma currency the most soulful, meaningful, environmentally friendly and enjoyable gift you can give.

Peace be with you and your family this holiday season.