One Shot Wednesday

Red Kettle Symphony

Walking down the gray wet sidewalk
my ears are attracted to the familiar
sound: ring, ring, ring, ring
My eyes search for your direction
and my feet keep walking forward...

I turn the corner and there you are.
Lone soul on a mission.
Nose red and purple from the cold,
but your smile is warm and your spirit bright.....

I approach you without a sound
my fingers releasing the silver coins.
"Thank you! God Bless" you say
"You too" I answer as I start
down the gray wet sidewalk.....

It's that time of year again. The Salvation Army Bell ringers are out in full force. My father taught me at a young age to always have extra change in the car, or my purse or pockets so I could give when this season arrived. It was exciting as a child to run up to the bucket and deliver a handfull of change, and it still is exciting to do this as an adult. I have taught my children this lesson as well and as soon as we see a bell ringer they are getting their money ready. My oldest and I have rung the bell as well. They are a terrific reminder of the spirit of the season: to give to others, to lend a helping hand, to be Jesus with skin on....