Posted in g/feelgood by @sjhw | earned 194,001 mlx

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@sjhw

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#ificouldbottlethismoment

#IfICouldBottleThisMoment

1.

@seattlejohn

and

@simplykyna

are the officers who brought me into The Salvation Army (aka The Army) to help publicize the organization’s programs and social services at the local Corps (church and community center) where they were serving in February 2015. I had to quickly familiarize myself with The Army’s history and that location’s needs-based services.

The “Angel Tree Program” is part of the Christmas-assistance offered to families. Parents submit their children’s wish lists of gifts, and the Corps creates a tag, either shaped like an angel or bearing an image of one, for each child.

The tags decorate Christmas trees in local retail establishments and malls which partner with The Army. Shoppers select a tag, purchase the items and place them in the collection bins beside the tree.

In late November/early December 2015, on arrival at the Corps, I saw

@seattlejohn

finish unloading barrels of toys from a box truck on his own. The barrels are substantial and even heavier, filled with donations. He did not see me pull up ahead of his truck.

2. This was a revelation. I’m from the UK where The Establishment consists of the Monarchy, the Church [of England] and the State. IMHO, Church of England clergy “enjoy their standing.” Yes,

@seattlejohn

is a man of the cloth but his ministry goes beyond pastoral care. He and

@simplykyna

do whatever is necessary to meet The Army’s mission and serve those in need. They are exemplars, down-to-earth and never complain. They are not what I call “CEO-ish” or “advisory board member-ish.” I think you know what I mean. I’m difficult to impress but this couple earned my lifelong, undying respect that day.

3. I wish I could bottle the moment to share with others so that they, too, might understand we should take of each other, always move forward and that nobody is better than anyone else.

4. Humbling.

5.

@philida

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comments

@seattlejohn

earned

ago

@Sjhw

it’s humbling to look back on that moment and realize how it grew into a beautiful friendship that’s lasted all these years. Thank you for walking alongside us in this amazing ministry... for serving others with such heart, commitment, and joy. Your friendship has been a true blessing, and I’m grateful we get to keep doing this life & work together!

@sjhw

earned

ago

I shall always be grateful for your invitation to serve with your ministry and value what you've taught me. Who knew that a chance encounter during the The Army's Red Kettle Season 2024 would endure? I look forward to the future with anticipation and Hope. 🙂🙏

@philida

earned

ago

This really captures the heart of what it means to serve, humility in action. Your respect for them shines through every word. Thank you for sharing your bottling moment with us ✨