Monday, December 5, 2011

What I Learned While Ringing The Bell

This past weekend employees of my radio station, WOMC, scattered around metro Detroit to man kettles for The Salvation Army. I don't know about you, but when I leave a store I'm A) frequently in a hurry B) usually distracted and C) don't want to be judged so, unless I have specifically planned to donate and have some change or singles at the ready I find myself ducking and running past the Red Kettle and its attendant. I can't afford to donate every single time I walk by a kettle and I'd feel like an idiot saying "I donated yesterday.' But here's what I learned.

1. There's no judging. I could tell when people were avoiding looking at me and let me assure you, there's no need. Sure it's nice when people stop and donate but a smile or even eye contact is just as good.

2. You can tell the Bell Ringer that you've already donated without looking like an idiot. I loved it when people told me; it gave me the chance to say "Thanks for your support. Happy Holidays!"

3. You get lots of different reactions to the question "Would you like a kiss?" Yes, I was handing out Hershey's Kisses. I'm not above bribing people. And yes I did hand out real pecks on the cheek to anyone who was brave enough to ask for one.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Set Straight By My Son

Last night my son and I had to have what I call the Save Yourself talk. I've been giving my daughter this talk for years and it boils down to "when your friends are making bad choices, save yourself." Now, my daughter is a caring girl but my son is really a sensitive soul. And every time I tried to bring my point home he would try and offer an example where he could do the opposite of what I advised.

My last scenario: you're at a party and kids are drinking and your best friend decides to stay. Save yourself.

Son: Can I tell him we should leave?

Me: Yes, but if he makes a bad decision to stay you have to still leave.

Son: What if I see other people I know? Can I tell them they should leave?

Me: Well, yes. Once. But don't wait for anyone. You can't save the world. No one can.

Son: Everybody can, mom, but not everybody will.