Make A Difference With Every Ring

One of my mom’s, Sonja Behnke Festerling favorite things to do after retiring from Behnke’s was ringing the Salvation Army bell at Behnke Nurseries. As a member of the Beltsville Rotary Club, which organized bell-ringing shifts from Thanksgiving through Christmas on weekends, Mom loved seeing everyone while ringing her bell. I know she always was hoping someone would drop in a gold coin.

As I go about my Christmas shopping now, I find myself listening for that familiar bell. But more often than not, the places I visit don’t seem to have bell ringers anymore. Maybe I need to get out more. I did find that the Salvation Army has a wonderful website where I could make my donation but also find so much information about them.

The other day, I saw a commercial that really struck a chord. It showed a mom with two young children, nowhere to go, until she noticed the Salvation Army stationed outside a store where she’d parked with her babies overnight. It made me think about how many lives this organization—and others like it—have touched. During times of great need, like natural disasters, we all come together and give what we can. Just a few months ago, we saw this generosity in action after the hurricanes.

Seeing that commercial reminded me how meaningful even a small gesture can be, especially this time of year.

Wishing you all a safe and healthy Holiday Season in the weeks ahead—may it be filled with kindness, generosity, and the joy of giving.