By Bob Morgan, Jr.

This is written on December 21 and I'm afraid that many of us are suffering from holiday fatigue syndrome right around now. But a little perspective is in order.

Since the holiday season is generally defined as starting on the so-called Black Friday after Thanksgiving and ending on New Year's Day, the arrival of Thanksgiving on November 22, the earliest possible date, has made this year's season seem like a particular marathon.

I certainly don't claim to be a social butterfly, but I have had a whirlwind social life in December, with some sort of business, social, political or community event most nights of the week. Many of these gatherings are fun, but cumulatively they take a toll in extra pounds and being tired in the morning.

Then there are the many rituals of the season, all of which consume time. I have literally 25 gifts to buy for various near and distant family members, plus all sorts of tips for various service personnel in my life. Plus purchasing a tree and some new ornaments. Plus planning for a post-Christmas trip to visit relatives out of the area.

Nor is all of this cheap. The lad is very actively lobbying me for a laptop computer (I guess it's better than being harassed about the Wii game system), but this is not an inexpensive gift, and there are always add-ons. And, while I certainly don't begrudge getting anyone a suitable gift, the cumulative expense can be significant.

And yet. The season has great religious significance for many of us of different faiths and the religious message is amplified by the music and songs of the season. (Of course, the secular songs are good as well.) There is light and color and everything is beautifully decorated. There is also something to the idea of the Christmas spirit; many people do act a little nicer and more considerate during the holidays .

And it is an opportunity to be with our friends and family. Many people (and I think that men are particularly susceptible to this) seem to need to have an excuse to keep in touch and the holidays do provide such an opportunity. And indeed, the holidays give us a chance to express appreciation for others in a way that we might not otherwise do.

And it is hardly a unique insight on my part, but the holidays also help us to celebrate family life. There is something very special about the energy and enthusiasm of a child at this time of year. I remember being three or four on Christmas morning and waking up and seeing presents under the tree. Being a fervent believer in Santa Claus, of course, I exclaimed "he came, he came!", which my parents actually tape recorded on their clunky 1950's machine. And rituals like this are celebrated everywhere now, but with newer technology.

So, yes, the holidays can be draining, but it is a time of the year well worth celebrating. Happy holidays to all.