It's almost Christmas, the time of year when consumerism goes into overdrive as we all start making lists of gits to buy: for our spouse, our siblings, our children, our parents, our own personal wish list and so on. There's nothing wrong with wanting to show our appreciation by giving something special to our loved ones and our friends. It is an inherent part of our human nature to want to express our love and gratitude by giving. Even the three kings turned up at Bethlehem bearing gifts. But when most of us already have so much, gifts may become superfluous, an extravagance, even. Which brings me to the point I want to make. I am not trying to discourage you from buying gifts for loved ones but to spare a thought for people who may not be so lucky.