It was the last hour of $2.00 per bag day last month when a mother and daughter came in to find some treasures.  You’d think it was Christmas day.   They had a blast.  They found the perfect clothes for each other and for themselves, and for another friend who had come in with them.  They squealed with delight, laughed with joy and their love for each other was palpable.  One had been ill, one had to leave a relationship quickly, along with most of her belongings, and this amazing generous $2.00 deal was just what was needed.  It was a privilege to be with them.

They shopped, and shopped and shopped.  With each new discovery, there was a fresh expression of delight, and I told them I wanted to hire them to just be present in the store with their infectious enthusiasm.  As the clock struck closing time, they made their way to the cash register.  They lined up their bags.  Twenty two bags in all!  Amazing!  Linda helped them load their treasures onto trolleys and wheeled them out to the car.  As she returned, closing the locking the door behind her, the last I heard from the parking lot was a marvelous “WOOHOO!” as the happy customers drove away.

That’s why I love working here.  How fortunate I am that part of my ministry is `a ministry of presence’ – just being there to listen, to help if possible, to rejoice with those who rejoice, and to grieve with those who are grieving.  I am proud of this little congregation and the wonderful dedicated group of volunteers who come from many different parts of the community to offer their time and talent at the Thrift Shop.  A big “WOOHOO” to all of you!

Abundant blessings, Rev. Juanita