The Salvation Army Comes to Wilmette

The Salvation Army Comes to Wilmette
by Linda Hoffman Kimball

Well-groomed ladies of the fine north shore
Go walkin’ on into the Dominicks store,
Strollin’ right past the jingle bell man
Playin’ and swayin’ by his bright red can.
While they hunt for lettuce and meat,
He’s jivin’ on the sidewalk with his bell and a beat.
He’s havin’ a ball with his ring-a-ting dance.
His feet are keepin’ rhythm with a tap and a prance.
Customers stop, and he gives a grin.
He doesn’t care if they drop coins in.
Watch how he shakes it high and low,
Fast on the right side; left side’s slow.
He nods to the ladies and the toddlers there.
His syncopated jingling fills the air.
He says “God Bless!” when folks walk by.
How can you not just love this guy?