In six days, Santa Claus will load up the sleigh with presents for good boys and girls the world over. Snowflakes, although extremely rare here, have been known to fall. Little says Christmas more than some of the white stuff.

Throughout this week filled with gatherings, love and hopes of joy, keep in mind the many among us who will go without. Vicksburg is one of the most giving, generous places when it comes to Christmas. This town is keenly aware of the importance of this day, and this town always seems to respond to need.

Salvation Army bell-ringers will be clanging away at local supermarkets. It’s not too late to drop some change or a few bucks in the kettle. That little bit of cash will go toward a hot meal for someone.

PAWS Rescue and the Vicksburg-Warren Humane Society are always in need of financial help, but especially this time of year. Fido enjoys gifts, too.

The area rescue missions are great places to contribute. Hot meals and places to sleep for those with neither are provided by our generosity.

Visit one of Vicksburg’s retirement centers and find someone whose family is no longer around, or who will have no one with whom to celebrate — and make a difference.

The economy today is taking its toll on the vast majority of the people. Some are well-off and contribute mightily, but that contribution is no greater than someone with little or nothing giving to help others. Remember the widow’s mite?

Christmas is not economy, although we have been programmed to believe Christmas cheer comes with an iPad.

There is still time to make a difference this Christmas. Vicksburg and the surrounding area should be lauded for what they have already done, and urged to do even more.

It is a special time of year. Everyone should share in that joy.