Some people have no reason to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. They may be of another religion. They may dismiss the event as mere commercialism. Some may feel they simply do not have time.

But like it or not, the 25th of December cannot be ignored unless one hides in the Barren Lands with only caribou and foxes for company. Much may seem wrong with Christmas but there is much that is good.

Working mothers and fathers, in their rush to pay bills and mortgages, must pause to think of their children. What do they want they don't really need? How can this Christmas be something special?

Daughters and sons cannot help but take time to think of their relationships with mom and dad, bringing back memories of their Christmas traditions. The same goes for brothers and sisters often living far apart who may not speak to each other all year, but who do so on Christmas day.

The spirit goes deeper still. Last week Yellowknifer ran two stories about people in need. One was a disturbing story about a family from Rae suffering far more than their share of medical calamities, and about how the mother was worried she and her husband would not be able to make a Christmas happen for their deserving children.

People responded with donations of money and food. What better way to raise burdened spirits than by helping strangers?

The second story told of the problems of the Salvation Army, coping with the consequences of the mail strike while trying to gather enough food and funds to feed people over the Christmas season.

Again, the city came through to help others they don't know, prodded by the spirit of Christmas, as flawed and commercial as it is.

For those who rejoice in the birth of Jesus and all that means for them, the Christmas spirit comes easy. What that spirit brings with it, the rest of us can share and take comfort from, regardless of our beliefs.

More artillery has arrived in town to bolster the war on smoking. A gang of puffers determined to break the habit has formed Smokers Anonymous, a self-help and mutual support group.

We are encouraged by their commitment. Smoking is the No. 1 cause of health problems in the nation. While the topic gets mired in the debate over personal choice, there can be no doubt that Canadians are killing themselves daily.

Recognizing smoking as an addiction, and therefore a health problem, clears the way for a solution. When it comes to a matter of personal choice, Smokers Anonymous may be a wise one for smokers.