While the end of Thanksgiving traditionally marks the start of the holiday season (which ends on New Year¡¯s Day) in the United States, some stores and restaurants in China have had Christmas trees and decorations up and employees decked in Santa gear since early November or even the end of October.

However, unlike a few years ago when I was pleasantly surprised at Christmas trees of all shapes and sizes popping up around me, this year the glittery display of holiday cheer has me in a cross between St. Nicholas and the Grinch (a Dr. Seuss creation who once tried to steal Christmas from the lovable Whos).

An essential element of what makes Christmas so special is missing among the bustling commercialism and preparations as well as the special activities and events in China -- the Christmas spirit. (In a chestnut, the Christmas spirit is ¡°peace on earth, goodwill towards all.)

One of the things I like most about Christmas in America is that it is not merely a time for fun, as the way it is often treated by young or cosmopolitan people in China. Rather, during the holiday season, people are genuinely nicer and more helpful. More people will let you go in front of them in line. More strangers will say hello to you. More people give to charities during this time. Generally, people are more at peace with themselves and the world around them. They are in a better mood and are more accommodating, brimming with goodwill towards all around them.

Some of you will say that people should be like this all year round. I agree, but this is easier said than done. One day, people all across the world will have the Christmas spirit yearlong. But it will take great effort. In the meanwhile, such a benevolent spirit for even just a little over a month is worthwhile.

Some of you may pompously remark that Chinese people are always nice. I hate to snow on your sunny wonderland, but that is just not true. I have met my share of mean and greedy people in China just like I have met my share of such people in America. In fact, go to any one of the 200 plus countries and regions in the world and you will find both nice and mean people.

If you are having problems accepting my claims, then think of it this way: I have been told that during Spring Festival (the Chinese Lunar New Year), people in China are more willing to help and are in a better mood than at other times of the year. It goes without reason that a Chinese citizen celebrating Spring Festival overseas would feel this special element missing.

Now I am not asking people to lift Christmas to the same level of importance as Spring Festival, which is the major holiday in China. Also please don¡¯t think I am a Scrooge. Christmas is my favorite holiday and I love to put up and decorate trees, give presents, and listen to Christmas music. But I would like Chinese people to realize that Christmas is much deeper and more sophisticated than the superficial material side. It is also much more than fun and games.

Now if you view me as being crotchety, then "nice meeting you and have a nice day." But if you are interested in getting a taste of the holiday spirit, it's easy: Do something nice for somebody. Maybe you usually never give you seat up for old people; surprise yourself a couple of times. Say hello or at least firmly smile to fellow Chinese compatriots, not just to foreigners. Give something extra to beggars: If you usually give beggars 1 yuan (roughly US$0.12), give them double or more. There are a number of small deeds that you can perform doing the holiday season. And as you do your kind acts, say "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays" with a bright smile.

Write to Raymond McFarland at mcstephen23@hotmail.com