The other day I went shopping, and as I was leaving a large store there was the familiar bell ringer and kettle outside. I had already contributed, but I stopped,  because standing there handing out small candy canes were five young boys.  I gave them a couple of dollars to put into the kettle for me and then asked them if any one of them knew whose birthday was being celebrated at Christmas.  You should have seen the blank look  of shock on their faces.   Not one could tell me it was Jesus Christ.

 

As I left, I turned and saw the familiar red logo of “Salvation Army”. The bell ringer’s head was looking down, as was of the leader for the young boys. Neither would look me in the eye. 

 

Knowing the history of that organization, I am sure founders Ma and Pa Booth would have been very, very saddened as well.

 

My, how times have changed!

 

MARY E. ADAMS