The Salvation Army Thrift Store is a place I frequent often, challenging myself to see if I can find something better than I did on my previous visits. And because it supports a good cause, I am happy to buy things and help one of my favorite special groups, the Salvation Army. All through the years the Salvation Army has had and continues to have, a great supporter in me. My father told me when I was quite young that the Salvation Army saved his life during World War Two, and he has always been a faithful supporter of them, instilling that need and wish to help them into his five offspring. Mother felt the same way. Then I did my Nurses training at the Salvation Army Grace Hospital in St. John’s, Newfoundland, so The ‘Army’ has really played a big part in my life. The bonnets they used to wear, the sound of the band at ‘open air’ meetings reaching so many people, the tambourines and brass instrument music dancing out over the water on a calm summer evening, is a cherished memory indeed.

Recently I dropped into our local Thrift store, which is a veritable basket of unique items. Great used clothing and books for next to nothing prices makes that little store a true treasure chest. From skates, to pots and pans, to warm fleecy jackets, it is all there. And when I find a special sweater or blouse, wear it, and have it complimented, I just smile secretly to myself, knowing that only I know that I came to have this gem in a special way.

On my latest visit to the store I had a delightful collection of items and treasures and I held them tightly as I approached the man at the checkout, who happened to be a Salvation Army Officer. During our conversation I commented that he must be starting a new career in sales, and we had a short conversation about all the wonderful things surrounding us.

Then I noticed a small sign and collection can sitting on the counter. The sign read ‘Support our Organ Fund’. Being in the medical field all my life, I decided without hesitation that I certainly would support the organ fund. I told the officer that organ transplants could save so many lives it was a shame that more people did not know or realize the need for funding, for having organ donor cards signed, and it seemed more public awareness was certainly necessary.

I continued to chat, while gathering coins from my purse, rattling on about organ donations, ending with "I really don’t understand what the problem is with the organ program."

Then I looked up and noticed the officer eyeing me rather strangely. He appeared to be somewhat ill at ease.

Then it happened!!

In a quiet voice he said, "I don’t understand it either ma’am, but I do know that our church organ has the keys falling off one by one, and we really do need a new organ as nobody seems to be able to fix our problem," and he smiled.

I just stared blankly ahead, picked up my purchases and bid him farewell. I could not get to the car fast enough! What was that all about? Then I came to realize that we were on totally different wave lengths, but both well-meaning. A definite case of Mixed Messages!

I just got the wrong organs! Or I got the organs wrong! I really don’t know, but what I do know is that I had an attack of ‘the wrong rant syndrome’. And a kind Salvation Army Officer smiled and understood, as they always do!!

Bonnie Jarvis-Lowe

"If you nurture your mind, body, and spirit, your time will expand. You will gain a new perspective that will allow you to accomplish much more." Brian Koslow