You could call it a tale of Christmas karma. But in this case, it would appear, the good guys come out on top.

Two recent news reports showed both the dark and the bright side of the Christmas giving spirit.

In the first case, South Carolina Salvation Army members were ringing the bells of joy when someone deposited a $100 bill in a local kettle.

But those sounds were quickly stilled when the sharp-eyed do-gooders realized someone was trying to pull a fast one — by slipping them a counterfeit C-note.

While the Salvation Army is accustomed to sorting through buttons, foreign coins and tightly folded U.S. currency, it doesn’t see much counterfeit money.

The chief bell-ringer said they were holding onto this phony Franklin, though — with the hopes that some generous donor would replace the Grinch’s donation with a real contribution.

Maybe the Salvation Army people in South Carolina should hook up with some folks in Kansas City, Kan., where a real-life Secret Santa is handing out $100 to benefit those who need it most.

A man dressed as Santa, accompanied by elves, hit several locations — including the Salvation Army Thrift Store.

Santa and his merry crew also handed out cards asking the people to share their stories of unexpected holiday joy at www.secretsantaworld.net

Want a real taste of the true meaning of the holiday spirit?  Here’s an excerpt from that site:

The Society of Secret Santas is an anonymous group of individuals throughout the world, performing random acts of kindness to those less fortunate.

Using their own financial resources and without a tax deduction, these leaders share their wealth with those in need. They give from their hearts remaining forever anonymous.

Those touched often include the homeless or the working poor with barely enough resources for daily life. From laundromats and thrift stores to street corners and bus depots, Secret Santas and their loyal Elves find and give to those least expecting.

Today, in an unsettled world, the Society of Secret Santas serves as an example that random acts of kindness bridge all social and economic barriers.

In the words of Peanuts’ character Linus Van Pelt: “That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.”

Tags: giving, holiday, Santa