CODY SOSSAMON
This year was certainly no exception

Sub Deb Megan Tyler poses with Andre while waiting to check out.

It never fails.

Each year during our "Christmas is for Kids" shopping spree, something or someone stirs my emotions.

And this year was no exception.

On second thought, maybe it was. Several things and someones moved me.

I struck up conversations with a couple of the younger children - as much as one can converse with kids not yet in first grade.

I was impressed with their bright demeanors and obvious affection for their siblings. Not only were they polite and grateful, they were thrilled with their purchases, proudly showing off what they picked out.

I didn't see one child throwing a fit because they didn't get something they wanted. Not one. I don't know about you, but it's a rarity when out shopping I don't see a kid whining about not getting this toy or that piece of candy.

Then there were the parents of these children.

Over and over, staff members of the various agencies who helped us - DSS, DSN, DMH and Parents of Preschoolers - pointed to a parent and said, "Now there's a real success story," and went on to describe how he or she was overcoming obstacles to become a good parent and provide for their children.

The staff members themselves were something special. Their "clients" seemed more like family and friends and the genuine concern for their welfare was evident in the greetings and hugs that ensued Saturday morning. I cannot say enough about these folks, but if the other employees at these agencies are half as caring, our local social services agencies are in good hands.

The Wal-Mart associates who assisted with shopping this year were outstanding. I know, I know, they were getting paid to run the cash registers and assist in other ways, but paid employees aren't always pleasant and helpful, especially when things get a bit hectic - like when you have 140 children and their families trying to go through two checkout lines and have a limit on how much they can spend.

The associates this year went above and beyond the call of duty in understanding the situation and handling it all very gracefully and cheerfully.

And what can I say about the girls of Sub Deb and their adult advisors? These high school girls not only got up very early Saturday morning (at least by 6:30), which is miraculous in and of itself, but they were waiting at the front door of Wal- Mart when our first shoppers arrived at 7. With calculators in hand, they "adopted" families and helped them pick out toys and clothes while staying within budget. They also helped add totals and bag items at the cash register.

I'm pretty sure I saw a few tears or damp eyes from some of these girls and their advisors.

Last but certainly not least, like every year, I am amazed at the generosity of the people of Cherokee County. Just before Thanksgiving each year when we begin the "Christmas is for Kids" fundraising effort, I begin to wonder if folks will continue to give as they have in the past.

Each year, my "wonder" proves unfounded. We'll never raise enough money to help all the kids who need it, but you always give enough so we can help a bunch of them. It looks like close to 160 children will have presents this year that otherwise would have had little or nothing under the tree.

For the past 18 years, I've been blessed to be a part of this special event, thanks to those of you who donate time and money to make it possible.

Thank you and Merry Christmas!

Cody Sossamon (cody@gaffneyledger.com) is publisher of The Gaffney Ledger.