By Katy Joscelyne
In the beautiful historical records surrounding the birth of Jesus, the focus is on what the three wise men gave the child, not on what the holy child got.
Contrast this with today’s children and you’ll predominantly hear them excitedly asking each other “What did you get?” and the replies, “I got…”.
Last year, I gave my grandchildren money and a note which said that we would be going to the Salvos in Dural where they could choose and purchase presents to give to the members of their famiIy. (We went on Half Price Day where their dollars went a long way!)
That afternoon (in separate rooms for secrecy!) they wrapped and tagged their gifts to mum, dad, siblings, grandparents and extended family members.
On Christmas Day, the whole tone had changed. I was told: “Mum couldn’t believe her eyes!”
“Dad said, ‘ Ohh wow! I’ve always wanted one of those!’”
“ My sister wore the T-shirt I bought her at our Christmas lunch”.
This year, the Salvos Store has $5, $10 and $20 vouchers for you to give to friends and loved ones to spend in our store. If your vouchers are destined for children, we suggest you come in during the last week of trade when we will be running Storewide Half Price days. They’ll have a wonderful time buying everything from books and bric-a-brac, pet needs and pottery, CDs, craft, Christmas decorations, DVDs, jewellery, toys, puzzles, games, sporting equipment, and a multitude of other items.
Make sure you have plenty of wrapping paper, sticky tape and gift tags at home for them to get their gifts ready to go under the tree, and watch the pendulum swing more towards the excitement of what they are able to give to others this Christmas.
We will be running three Storewide Half Price Days: Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd December. On Christmas Eve, our doors will close at midday, and during that morning, all remaining Christmas decorations, ornaments and china will be our gift to you, at no charge.
We will launch into the New Year on Thursday 7th January at 9am, ready to welcome you back, and to receive donations.
Management offers sincere thanks to everyone who has supported us during this very difficult year: to donors and customers: thank you. And to the team of volunteers who rotate over 6 days to keep the store stocked and viable: you are the best!
We wish you all a safe, happy and healthy Christmas and festive season.
