Several weeks ago I rang a Salvation Army bell in a prosperous shopping mall. People of all ages and walks of life dropped money into my red kettle. As I thanked each one, I began to have feelings of joy. Some people smiled shyly, others gruffly looked away and mumbled, “You’re welcome.” Others repeated my enthusiastic, “Merry Christmas.”
Children wanted to put something in the kettle. They pulled on their parents’ hands, pointing to the kettle. Sometimes I had to tip the kettle so they could reach it. Grandparents gave their grandchildren coins or bills. One little boy cried, “But I wanted bubble gum.” When I thanked him, he stopped crying and smiled.
Last year when I was bell-ringing, I thought of the Iraqi families experiencing terror and death and destruction. Tears came to my eyes as I realized how fortunate we are in the safety of our country.
Despite the noise of the mall, my small bell sent its Christmas message. People responded generously. As I left, I knew joy would remain in my heart until next year’s bell ringing. For those who heard the bell and gave, I hope some of the Christmas spirit stays with them also.
Nancy Cramer
Kansas City
From salvationarmy.org:
"The Mission of The Salvation Army"
"The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church."
"Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination."
NoMoreMrNiceGuy's translation: ""I want" should be the modern slogan for holiday season."
You have to be a real Scrooge to see the Salvation Army as the embodiment of our entitlement society.
Posted by: whispering_to_kc | January 25, 2009 at 02:59 PM
Thas' cause his currency of choice is the dong
Posted by: Pub 17 | January 25, 2009 at 02:27 PM
"Christmas? Bah, HUMBUG!!!" - NoMoreMrNiceGuy.
Somethin' tells me NoMoreMrNiceGuy didn't drop any shekels in Cramer's little red pot.
Posted by: whispering_to_kc | January 25, 2009 at 02:02 PM
This paints the perfect pcture of Chrsitmas.....uuurr sorry "Holiday" in our nation. "I want" shouold be the modern slogan for holiday season. Do not say Christmas, those that do not believe in God will scorn you for it while telling you what they want and feel entitled to.
Posted by: NoMoreMrNiceGuy | January 25, 2009 at 10:25 AM