It’s very much a part of Christmas and I look forward to hearing those bells. Stores that don’t allow them outside their doors any more are being very Scrooge-like. I always carry a bunch of dollar bills with me over the holidays and toss in a couple every time I go by the kettle. The Salvation Army is a worthwhile charity and all the money collected goes to help people as opposed to paying some asshole CEO millions of bucks a year, like some, such as the Red Cross.
After reading all the vitriolic hate directed at the Salvation Army, all I can say is – bullshit!!! Once upon a time a long time ago, I needed some help and who was first on the scene? Not the Red Cross. Not Goodwill. But there was the Salvation Army and they never asked a thing in return.
I have known a number of people since then – and actually a couple before – who were in the Salvation Army and they were among the nicest people you would ever want to meet. Yes, they are a religious organization and they are the only religious organization I will ever say a good word about.
They feed, clothe and offer shelter to the needy and in times of crisis are on the scene to help those who need help without asking if you’re gay, straight or whatever else there might be. I suppose there are some who might find something wrong with that, but I can’t.
So let the bells ring – and toss in a buck or your loose change when you go by the kettle. At least it’s going to help someone in need.