born''), by columnist Michael J. McManus, talks about a book which argues that Christianity has had an enormously positive impact on the world we know today.

The United States and democracy as we know it would be very different if it were it not for the teachings of the New Testament. Advances in science and health may not have occurred had the world's most dominant religion been Buddhism or Islam, the book argues.

Of course, terrible atrocities and mistakes have occurred in defence of different varieties of Christianity, ranging from the Inquisition to the recently ended, one hopes, strife in Northern Ireland.

Yet few would dispute that the teachings of Jesus have been a force for good.

From the golden rule -- do unto others as you would have others do unto you -- to the broader ideas of humility and charity, Jesus' views, as they were transmitted to the rest of the world by his disciples, are still relevant and still have a universal appeal.

Christmas, once you look beyond the latest fads and the endless urgings to spend and spend some more, remains a time when giving is better than receiving and when most people show that they are their brother's keeper.

A recent story and editorial in this space berated the public for its failure to respond to an appeal by the Eastern Lionesses to fill hampers for the needy. The response to the story was spectacular as people from all walks of life came forward to meet the appeal.

Bermudians have a proud tradition of giving at Christmas and in times of calamity. Such giving defies the truism that charity begins at home, but it is also true that this giving comes at specific times, and not throughout the year.

Bermuda, and the world, would be a better place if the same spirit of charity which sees people donate beds and food to the needy at Christmas was habitual throughout the year.

Of course, there are many who give of their hearts, time and money day in and day out and this message is not directed at them.

Another story in today's paper on Bermuda's "Angels on the Rock'' in the Lifestyle section, introduces three examples of these people. The whole community would do well to emulate their example, not just now, but every day.

Then Bermuda really would be a different world.