Bell Ringing Testimonials

 

A word from a volunteer bell ringer

 

"It is something that you really can not describe.
Not a job, not an obligation,
not even a sacrifice.

IT WAS AN HONOR.

We saw little kids stop, watch and then dig into their pockets and drop all they had. Their parents learned alot from them that night as after a brief hesitation, they gave them a big smile and pat on the head.
We saw kids you would be afraid of after dark, (what with piercings all over their bodies and all), come up and give with a smile while saying "Merry Christmas".
We about dropped the bell.

Parents would patiently lean down and give little ones money to bring over and put in the kettle teaching them about the importance of giving.
I think some of them showed as much anticipation in their little eyes as what they would if waiting in line to talk to Santa.

There were rich, poor, black, & white and for that short time we were there,
they were all from the same mold,
undistinguishable in our eyes,
and all of them about 10 ft tall.

Many people came up and thanked us,
but we could only tell them that we should be thanking them,
and we did just that with a genuine smile that could not be held back.
Now we have always been Salvation Army fans
but after seeing all the good that they do,
with not a single selfish motive in their hearts,
we will always try to help them in any way we can.

We have helped serve in food kitchens and that was touching,
but to see those that are responsible to help fill those kitchens through their offerings is something else.
We are looking forward to our next bell ringing session!
God bless the Salvation Army."

-Tom Wolf, volunteer bell ringer