Mood:
crushed outTopic: "Gidget Goes Gondor"(7)
Sir Isaac Newton (of apple fame), remarked that "for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction" to define one of the principles of physics. Frodo is a subscriber to the fact that most such laws translate nicely into human events. In this case, for example, some human behavior impacted others and the entire mood of the day was changed.
The Men of Gondor give of their time each year in order to "ring the bell" for the Salvation Army in front of a mega-Walmart on one Saturday in December. The event was scheduled as usual long ahead of time, so that adequate coverage would take place throughout the daylight hours. Time and responsibility this year however, interjected themselves and suddenly there were not enough hands to meet the demand.
Frodo was distraught. Gandalf told him, long ago, that his greatest challenge would be to best use the time that is given to him. He was prepared to work from early morn if it would be necessary, simply because the cause is so important. It would be the best use of his time, and certainly of the others who were able to join him as scheduled.
"I'll help you, Mr. Frodo," piped Sam from outside the window. "I can bundle up nice and warm, and if you will allow me to share time with you, I'll see if I can't be as strong and brave as any of the Men of Gondor." Frodo smiled at the thought of Samwise greeting and winning the hearts of gentle passersby. "It is a date," he said, and this past Saturday it was Frodo and Sam, together, on behalf of the good people at the Salvation Army.
"Do you want to ring the bell?", queried Sam to the little Hispanic girl, who slipped a dollar bill into the slot atop the kettle. "Oh, look at this one coming up here." "How are you?" "Can you put those coins in all by yourself?" "Wow, you must really do good in school", said Sam, chattering to the smallest of faces. To those bigger in size, Sam sparkled with compliments and blessings for their generosity. Throughout the early afternoon the Hobbits did their best to spread a little joy, and collect a few farthings in difficult times for so many. "Merry Christmas" was mouthed a thousand times beyond the milennium to all who passed.
These moments were "the best of times." Gandalf would be very proud of both Frodo and, most especially, Samwise.
