By MARK HENKES

It seems that most people look forward to Christmas because they know they are going to get presents. Is that the reason which makes Christmas such a great holiday season?

The Christmas season is the only time one can see those colorful little lights uptown through the falling snowflakes.

Christmas is the only time one can get hit in the face with a snowball and still laugh.

Christmas is the only time one can enjoy the special television commercials about the latest Christmas album and the new double‑tread Goodyear tires.

Christmas is the only time one doesn't feel like an imbecile when saying "hi" to someone who doesn't say "hi" back.

Christmas is the only time one can accidentally pull Santa's beard off in front of the rest of the kiddies standing in line.

Christmas is the only time one can fall on a sheet of ice and not be embarrassed by the other shoppers.

Christmas is the time a person can always give parents a good excuse for going into town.

Christmas is the only time to buy something expensive for someone without the feeling of being cheated.