A season of giving and gratitude

The Christmas season is here, a time to celebrate and reflect on the reason for the season: our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Bridges’ siblings braved the cold Saturday morning earlier this month to greet customers outside Food City, wearing festive elf hats, a Santa hat and reindeer antlers.

With big smiles, they rang the bell for the Salvation Army, raising awareness of the charity’s need for donations and volunteers.

The Salvation Army and its red kettles have been a symbol of giving for as long as I can remember.

As a small child, I felt excitement and joy when I saw the red kettle and heard the bell ringing.

As I got older, my parents explained the importance of that little red kettle — how even small donations can add up to make a big difference.

They taught me and my siblings important lessons: a little makes a lot, to give with a grateful heart, and that a handful of coins can add up to dollars.

Most importantly, they taught us always to leave a positive impact on others.

The Salvation Army helps countless families and children who need extra support, especially this time of year.

If you’d like to give, you can donate at a red kettle, online, or by scanning the QR code on the sign.