Christmas, we are often told, is a time for giving and receiving, though we often seem to spend more time spending money than spending time with each other and just enjoying the time off, and, if you are religious, the spirit of the season.

However, Christmas by and large is a happy time for most of us. We don't have to worry about the basics, like food, shelter and the company of relatives. Instead we think about decorating our homes, sheltering or hiding the gifts from the loved ones until the big day and how to get on with the relatives until the shops reopen and we get back to normality.

But, it's not like that for everyone. And Christmas is especially difficult for the silent minority. This year, two Galway charities are asking people to consider how things could be very different. COPE is asking people to imagine being homeless, a woman or child experiencing domestic violence or an older, vulnerable person in Galway, while Galway Simon is asking people 'What if?'

Imagine what Christmas would be like if you didn't have a home, food or relatives. Imagine the cold, the fear or having nobody who cares. Imagine not being able to COPE? What if there was no one there to help homeless people at Christmas? What if Galway Simon had to turn people away from its doors because it didn't have the funds or facilities to cope? What if there was somebody outside its window looking in ? a homeless person who is too shy or ashamed to ask if they can join in for Christmas dinner? Imagine if it was you or someone you loved or cared about.

Coco Chanel once advised people to avoid over-accessorising by looking in the mirror before going out and taking one item off. It can be quite difficult to forego Christmas presents in lieu of ethical gifts but in an age where children are asking for multiple gifts, maybe it'd be an idea to ask them to look in the mirror, imagine 'What if it was me', take one item off their wish list and donate the price of that item to charity.

Donations to COPE can be sent to 2-5 Calbro House, Tuam Road, Galway or by calling 091-778750, while donations to Simon can be made to the Simon Shop at 18 Sea Road Galway or at 10 Montpellier Terrace, The Crescent, Galway. Phone 091-589415.

Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year from everyone at the Galway Independent.

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