I don't know who gets credit for that quote but at this time of the year it seems far from true. The stores both local and virtual are filled with shoppers trying to find that perfect present that will bring happiness to their friend, colleagues family or loved ones.

Charities are pleading for money to sustain their acts of charity or for research to find a much needed cure. The many who are without NEED money to pay for the necessities of life, food and shelter.

People wish for a little extra money to buy a gift for someone to show they care. People need money to pay their bills, to keep their businesses alive, to pay for needed medicine.

It is true that "Money can't buy happiness." But sometimes, not always,the side effects of having money can provide the opportunity to make choices. Money can provide the tools that allow survival.

I have seen people with very little remain happy and filled with faith and hope. I wish that, happiness could buy money.

Despair and the feeling of hopelessness aren't the exclusive property of the poor. Maybe these depressed people would find the happiness and joy that eludes them by sharing with those less fortunate. When it comes to caring and sharing the return on the investment is fantastic.

Maybe those that are in the final chapters of this life and no longer feel they have purpose or direction, but have funds that will exceed their life might find happiness and purpose spending their money as a mentor or anonymous benefactor instead of leaving an inheritance to be spent after they are gone.

"Money can't buy happiness." Examples that this is true are too many to count. The person who wins the lottery and then goes on to squander it and alienates their loved ones in the process. The person who is rich beyond belief but can't purchase a cure for the terminal illness that plagues their family. The person who would sell everything they had and pay anything to have one more moment with a loved one who is gone. The person who has spent all their time and energy making money and now reflects on how they missed the experience of being involved in their children's lives as they grew up.

"Money can't buy happiness." This is true but without it or some way to barter for the needs necessary to survive the absence of money can result in desperation.

A minister here in Tampa last year gave each member of the congregation money to pass along a kindness and help someone. I gave money to my family and asked them to do the same. It wasn't much but I loved the idea. Oprah gave each of her audience members $1000.00 to pass on to make a difference. These acts are helping people and bringing happiness both to the giver and receiver.

Sometimes, "Money can buy a little happiness."