A few weeks ago, we had our Cub Scouts bring a recipe of a dinner they wanted to make and guesstimate how much each ingredient would cost. The following week, we met at our local grocery store and “pretend shopped” by giving them a tour of the store, teaching them about labels, bargains and ads while comparing what they thought their items cost to the actual price. It was an eye-opening experience as they realized just how much it costs to feed a family.
When I asked what they had learned, one boy observed, “It taught me I need to eat less.”
“You’re a growing boy who needs to eat,” I countered. “Instead, it should teach you to be grateful your parents have money to buy food and to not be wasteful. Because every time you throw away food, you’re throwing away money you spent on it.”
Deep, even for me.
While we were waiting for the boys to arrive at the grocery store, Bode and I chatted with the man ringing the bell for the Salvation Army’s annual charity drive. I’ve always tried to donate when I can but this article, The Other Side of the Bell, really resonated with me:
I observed human nature in action, a real-life lab experiment on how people behave in what – to them – is an awkward relationship. Some people couldn’t have been nicer, whether they plopped change in the kettle or not; they’d say hi, maybe make a comment about the cold, or at least nod.
But the majority of people who strode past on that busy afternoon were determined to avoid eye contact. I had become, in some respects, invisible.
So, for the record, and to offer an assist for people – maybe you – who don’t know how to handle that situation during the holiday season, allow me to explain the point of view of those on the other side of the bell.
Take a moment to read it because my attitude and reactions to those ringing the bell has completely changed. As Bode and I talked to the exuberant bell ringer, he asked if we wanted to take a turn. Suddenly, we were on The Other Side of the Bell and just like the author, my cute little Cub Scout bell ringer was ignored and passed over without a second glance. 
He got one donation: from his Mama.
After being on The Other Side of the Bell, just remember that even if you can’t spare any money that even a simple smile or a friendly exchange are worth their weight in gold.
I'm a Canadian-born mom of two, former Denver Post columnist, family travel writer, editor of MileHighMamas.com and 9News contributor. Expert on all things Utah, Denver, family and travel. Lover of laughter and life. Happily married to a man obsessed with growing The Great Pumpkin. 