Christmas in July

Every now and then I stop and ask myself what it is I'm doing with these Christmas Jars. What am I truly trying to accomplish and is it worth all the time and effort I put in to sharing the story of The Christmas Jar? "Sharing" can include talking to customers at the store, mailing out a jar, a copy of Christmas Jars, or jar wrapper, answering emails that come in from all over the country, addressing philanthropic groups, visiting schools, talking to people on the phone who want to start "a Christmas Jar Campaign", and talking to the media. Some days it takes up a considerable amount of time and other days none at all.

There are days I wonder how many people I'm reaching? Are people really as excited about the Christmas Jar as I am or am I just being a pain to those around me? Does this little tradition of taking spare change and turning it into a miracle for someone else really matter?

I think it does!

Here's proof:

Today I was at the drugstore filling some prescriptions when I heard, "Hey, Laurie". I turned around and saw the pharmacist waving at me. I walked down the aisle and stood at the counter figuring there was a problem with one of the medicines. She said, "Tell me about these Christmas Jars". Now I have purchased my prescriptions at this drugstore for a lot years and I have talked about Christmas Jars to a lot of people but I have never spoken to the pharmacist about Christmas Jars! I giggled and proceeded to give my little spiel. As I did I could see out of the corner of my eyes other people moving closer pretending to shop but really trying to listen in on our conversation. Normally, I would think this behavior was rude but when I'm talking CJ's and I see people moving closer, I get excited and start speaking a little louder! I don't know how she heard about Christmas Jars and it doesn't really matter. She's filling her first Christmas Jar and it makes my heart sing!

This evening I went into Dairy Queen to get the wisdom toothless child some ice cream and I heard, "Laurie Paisley"! I turned and there was a friend of mine with her husband! I gave her a hug and she introduced me to her husband as Laurie Paisley and we exchanged "nice to meet yous". She then told him I was her "Christmas Jar lady!" His response was a little bow followed by, "Then I'm REALLY glad to meet you!" Again, I just giggled! The coolest part of this story is that I met this girl because her mother in Nebraska received a copy of the book, Christmas Jars. Her mother told her daughter she had to read it. She came into my store asking for a copy, we chatted and the rest, as they say, is history! I can't tell you how many people I have met along this journey who have remained close friends.

I think there is an amazing bond that occurs when people come together for a common goal. The Christmas Jar tradition is really about individuals across the world coming together as a group to do one thing......spread hope to others.

It's days like today that reinforce my passion for the Christmas Jar. Today was a true blessing. Today I experienced a little bit of Christmas in July!