Christmas Heroes Continued; Cally’s Story

Yesterday, I asked you to share stories of people who through their selfless acts represent the best of the Christmas spirit. I’ve been thrilled by the response. There are so many unsung heroes out there and I hope if you’re feeling discouraged by the materialism that can surround this holiday season, you’ll stop by here to read about ordinary, remarkable people who are quietly making a difference in their world.

Today, is a story Cally sent to me of someone who inspired her. She is the author of the blog, Journal of Inde-Sapien Experience.

Here it is:

My Christmas hero for decades now has been the angel that visits the
Salvation Army bell-ringer kettles and drops in gold coins worth
anywhere from $5 to $500 – never a word to make him stand out, just
drop in the coin and go.

When the first angel died, the family came forth to announce who he
had been – but later that year, when the kettles came out again, those
gold coins appeared just as they had done in years past.

To give anonymously, to get nothing in return but the joy one receives
from selfless acts, is the noblest act a person in our society can do.
This is a person (or these are people) who haven’t forgotten the
Christmas Spirit does not come wrapped in fancy paper and silly bows.

Though the first angel died, his work goes on, these saints of the
season giving without recognition, knowing their generosity helps meet
not only a financial need of the struggling, but a spiritual need for
those of us who would otherwise weep at the greed and hostility this
blessed time can bring forth.

When my children ask if Santa is real – 14, 12, 9 and 6 – I can tell
them with confidence that he is. Maybe not a fat man with reindeer
doling out gifts, but a feeling, a generosity, a love for others, that
is very real and finds its expression in the smallest acts.

Cally, what a beautiful story of concern for others. And, to my readers, I hope you will continue to participate. You can send me your stories at redpinemountainatgmail.com.

Thank you again Cally.