This time of year the sound of bells ringing seems to be carried on every breath of wind, like the heartbeat of the world clamoring to be heard. The Salvation Army “Santas” occupy seemingly every storefront, elevators ubiquitously pipe “Silver Bells” between floors, radio and television programs fill the background with seasonal jingles—of bells and advertisements. Now and then I stop and listen to the voices of those bells. It’s that time of year.
From the moment that first red kettle is set up to begin this carol of the bells, I hear one word more than any other: “Give.” I suppose that’s natural. It is “The Season of Giving.” Merchants, of course, are encouraging us to give to them, buy their products so they can make their living and spread that to their employees and their communities. The nation’s economy is more in need of our “giving” now than it has been for some time. It’s the other gifting idea, though, that is more prevalent. This is the time we all seem to want and even need to give to others, to those who are less fortunate, even at a time when we all seem to think we’re less fortunate.
I don’t think any other country gives as much or as unselfishly than does ours. As individuals we plan annually to do what we can, no matter how small, to lend a hand. As a country, we seem to be the world’s “Santa” year-round.
I wonder why there is such a need in our country, though. Thousands go to sleep homeless every night. People of all ages lack proper food and clothing in the wealthiest nation on earth. And we give. Little children donate the contents of their piggy banks to rebuild fire stations or buy teddy bears for the children of deployed military personnel. Little old ladies living on meager pensions drop their last pennies into the collection plate. Corporations contribute millions (makes a good tax break and public relations).
Everyone wants to help, and there is no shortage of avenues to do so. The bells remind us at this time of year, but they need to ring daily, every day of the year. Find a way to do your part. Hear the bells pleading for those less fortunate than you. Some day you may discover the wisdom that you should “not ask for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee.”
