Terry Mar - The Wishing Bell

I was returning a gift
the size was all wrong
Like most in a rush
I hoped this wouldn't take long

An elderly man was ringing a bell
and showing a contagious grin
He nodded to those coming out
and the same to those going in

He showed no hat
or container for change
What was his purpose
it just seemed strange

As I came out of the store
I told him Christmas had past
He said he understood that
he hoped the feeling could last

He asked why only at Christmas
are most people pleasant and kind
I hope my ringing this bell
will keep that spirit in their mind

A week later I went back
but the man was not around
Yet each time the wind blew
I heard that ringing sound

There was a sign and his bell
attached where he stood by the wall
It said,