We were less than fifteen minutes in to our two hour shift and a middle-aged woman came up with some loose change. She put it in the kettle and then read the sign that indicated it was a match day (a match day is sponsored by a local business that will match up to $5000 in donations). She quickly said, "I need to go home and get my check. I watch for a match day every year so I can double my money." She put her gloves on and made her way to the exit. At the door, she turned and said, "I'm so happy to be on the other side of this. I was glad many years ago when the Salvation Army showed up at my door with a box for my family. You don't forget that, you know?" And off she went.
A bit later, an older man stopped near our red kettle. He said, "You know we only write checks to two organizations; you people (meaning the Salvation Army, I presume) and Children's Hospital. And do you know why? Because I know where the money goes. Thanks for ringing the bells today." He left with a purpose in his step and a smile on his lips.
An attractive younger woman stopped. Her eyes were brimming with tears. She started to peel single dollar bills from a wad in her fist. We started to thank her and she said, "I have to give a donation. The guy in front of me in the grocery line just paid for my groceries. I could cry." She continued to take dollars from her hand and put them in the kettle. It seemed she just couldn't wrap her brain around the kindness of a stranger. "People are good, aren't they?" Really good," I said. And she said, "Yes, they are. That made my day. I just can't believe it!"
We saw grandparents with their grandchildren and mom's with their kids. One little guy was with his mom. I guessed him to be five years old. He said, "So why are there two of you here?" I said, "Well, we like each other. We are married." Mark said, "We're a team. We're married." Our new little five year old friend went on to say, "Well my mom is married to my dad, too. She said she saw my dad and thought he looked nice. He saw her and thought she looked nice, so that's how they got married." His mom chimed in and said, "I told him I really liked his dad because he had good manners, so I'm hoping he will pick up on those good manners." I think he's off to a good start!
Our shift was over before we knew it, but I hope what I learned Wednesday morning stays with me awhile. I was reminded to appreciate everything and everyone in my life; that it's a good idea to donate to worthwhile charities; random acts of kindness make a difference for more than just the person who was the object of the kindness; and five year old children have a sweet, simple, innocent vision of the world.
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