Winger Ringerdinger

[madamesilverspurs]

In a rare bit of good luck I got to the grocery store just as the front handicap parking space was being vacated. As I was heading into the store the Salvation Army bellringer was setting up. Having paid for my small bag of goodies I kept the coins from the change in my hand, ready to drop them into the red kettle. While dropping the coins into the slot I glanced up and noted that the bellringer was wearing a jacket with a veteran's patch on it, so when he thanked me for my donation I thanked him for his service. He smiled, then gave me one of those do-I-know-you-from-somewhere looks. I just smiled back and gave him one of those little toodleloo waves.

I had recognized him from several town-hall meetings. Suffice it to say that he isn't given to making kind remarks about 'libruls'. Anyway, I was thinking that his present task might present him with some opportunities to alter his perspective a bit. Then I glanced over and saw him frowning as he noticed my numerous bumper stickers, easily read as I was parked not twenty feet away from his position. His glower intensified as he turned and glared at the red bucket as though trying to figure out how to turn it upside down to shake out my tainted offering.

On Friday I have to go back to that store, as my pharmacy is located there. This could get interesting.


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[timeforpeace]

1. Alter his perspective? Seems as a volunteer bell ringer for the SA his perspective is just fine.

[MineralMan]

2. He may well be a paid bellringer. He probably won't be at the

same place next time you go there.

[msongs]

3. give your donations to progressive groups not right wingers like the Salvation Army. nt

[madamesilverspurs]

6. Salvation Army feeds a lot of families

in this area. A few years ago they brought me a Thanksgiving basket after I got out of the hospital; they just showed up at my door and presented it. They didn't ask anything about me, but they did wish me "Happy Thanksgiving." It was good food, it wasn't poisoned, it didn't turn me into a Republican. I very much appreciated it. Hunger has no political affiliation.

The progressive organizations in which I'm very active are pleased to accept my time in lieu of the financial contributions I wish I could make. And most of them aren't set up with kitchens for preparing and serving meals for large numbers. So, this time of year when it's cold outside, I drop a few pennies - and I do mean pennies - to help them feed the hungry. I wish I could do more.


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[MineralMan]

4. I don't donate to the Salvation Army, due to their intolerance

for GLBT people. I donate at this time of year to rescue missions and homeless shelters. I check, and only those who don't discriminate in any way get our donations.

[madamesilverspurs]

7. See my response to #3

[DCKit]

5. Sheesh. He probably thinks that the Salvation Army gives it all to bankers and CEOs.

I can't imagine, for the life of me, what any winger would be doing collecting money for the less fortunate.