Ringing Out the Season

A Salvation Army bell ringer solicits donations last week outside a mall in Massachusetts.

   Some retail chains have banned Salvation Army bell ringers. Their excuse is always the same. They want consistency in their policies of no solicitation. Then, to buffer themselves from criticism, they cite donations they've made to the Salvation Army.
   Their decisions are lamentable.
   Exclusion policies lessen the dollars received by the Salvation Army. The poor get less support.
   These policies suppress happiness. When people give, they feel happier. Because they feel happier, they give again. Researchers describe this process as a 'positive feedback loop.'
   These policies deny people an opportunity to please God. The bible states,  'Do not neglect to do good and share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.'
   I wonder if God is angered when the bells stop ringing.