Mixed Messages

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. My father had told me that the Salvation Army had saved his life during World War Two. Since then, he has always been a faithful supporter, and he has instilled the wish to help them into his five offspring.

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, the tambourines and brass instrument music dancing out over the water on a calm summer evening, is a cherished memory indeed.

On my latest visit to the store I found a delightful collection of items and treasures, and I held them tightly as I approached the Salvation Army Officer at the checkout. 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, and it was a shame that more people did not know or realize the need for funding and for having organ donor cards signed, and it seemed more public awareness was certainly necessary.

I continued to chat, while searching for coins in 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 picked up my purchases and bid him farewell. I could not get to the car fast enough, thinking: I just got the wrong organs!

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