Every week I join the throng of people who work at the Bryn Athyn Thrift Store, called BATS. The schedule includes ninety names, along with what department they help and which days they show up. I am on the Tuesday roster. Not surprisingly, I wrap fabric for sale. They probably recruited me, knowing I would be a steady customer. Which I am. 

 

Fabric and I have been friends for a long time, and along with notes about the approximate measurements of the piece, I sometimes add a comment about fabric. Wool, silk, fleece. The amount and quality of yardage to come through is impressive, and it tickles me to see it go out the door. Maybe this is how animal shelter staff feel when a dog gets adopted. 

 

The whole scenario is magnanimous. People who are clearing out their closets get to drop off extra coats, and mugs. The door for donations is busy most of the time. The other day I heard someone shout to the intake crowd. 

 

"Extra big load coming." Which reminded me of those scenes in medical episodes where a busload of patients starts arriving on gurneys. But in this case it probably meant someone was downsizing, or an elderly parent had passed away. 

 

Contributing to the flow of items ready for display is fun as well. Women with an eye for beauty create displays that invite shoppers to come closer, especially around holidays. Plus, there are usually snacks in the break room, and always someone ready for a chat. 

 

Then there is the benefit to those who buy things. Finding clothes and household goods at a rock bottom price can make life easier. It is fun to overhear mothers of young children who say yes to their children without checking the tag.

 

At the end of the food chain is the school, whose coffers are filled by the income. 

 

Win, win, win, win. 

 

It is my belief that this is a foreshadowing of heaven. People who love to help, paired with a steady supply of gifts, seems like a way to practice being an angel.