Madison, Wisconsin:
When Christmas Jars first came out, I fell in love with the book. I imediately gave it to my mom to read, (she gave it to three other people to read.) I have also given the book to co-workers to read and recommended it to other co-workers out of state.
The first Christmas jar I gave away was to a single mom with three kids who had just found out she was pregnant again. After I gave the jar, I experienced an emotional … I don’t know the word, rush? high? outpouring? Everything just burst out like a dam. My dad thought I was crying because I gave away the jar, but that wasn’t it, I was giving the Christmas spirit of generosity.
Tonight, I was meeting my friends at the theater (to see Twilight of all things!) The Badger Honor Flight was there with a display. They are a Wisconsin based group that flies WWII veterans to Washington DC to see the WWII memorial. Before the movie began, I ran home, quickly retrieved my Christmas jar and brought it back to the theater. I explained the tradition of the Christmas jar and the book that started it all. They were overwhelmed and there were big hugs all around.
Once again, I experienced that same emotional rush. (I’m still getting teary eyed typing this.)
I just wanted to thank you for writing such a special book and bringing an amazing joy into my life … just by giving away a simple jar.