By now you should have seen the catchy television commercials for MasterCard. They start by identifying some things that people can buy with their MasterCard, then show a moment that is priceless and end by saying, "There are some things money can't buy, for everything else there's MasterCard."

As we enter this Christmas Season, this advertising concept is one we need to remember. Oh, not that most of us need any help in remembering to use our MasterCard; we are expert shots when it comes to using those things. But, remembering that it’s the little things that make a real difference in life.

Can you remember all of the gifts you received last year? How about the year before? Me either.

But, we can remember the special times we spent with family. Those special memories of laughter and good times; the sweet remembrances of watching the kids grow up; the echoes of kind words and good deeds are with us for a very long time.

Our life is the culmination of the little moments, which over time, have a huge impact. Unfortunately people tend to take them for granted. With so much emphasis on holiday shopping, and on buying the perfect gift, we can lose sight of the importance of the less flashy, but "priceless" gifts: gifts such as thoughtfulness and gratitude that we can give to one another all year round.

A diamond may last forever, but its value is nothing compared to a lifetime of moments that money can't buy.

This Christmas season would be a great time to add a few things to your seasonal “to do list”. Here are a few “priceless” activities you might want to try:

1. Show your appreciation with a thank-you, a smile or a hug (or all three). It takes just a moment, but it can make a person's day.

2. Practice a random act of kindness every day. Make this your "gift" to a stranger. For example, let someone in front of you in line. Hold a door
   open for someone. Smile and greet people you pass at work. These acts take only a few seconds or less, yet they create a mood that can last for
   hours.

3. Call up someone you haven't spoken to in a while, just to catch up on how they are. You've probably been meaning to do this for a long time.

4. Write a note of appreciation to someone who is important to you. Don't be surprised if that person keeps the note for years to come.

Come on, you know you want to. Give it a shot!