For the first time in years my wife and I decided to purchase a real Christmas tree. But our tree stand, having been neglected for over eight years, must have wandered off.
Not to worry I thought, I will simply buy a new one. I confidently strode into Zellers but discovered they were sold out of tree stands. All Canadian Tire had were some of their high-end type which would end up costing me more than the tree. I was informed all the basic ones were sold out.
I checked with Rona and Home Hardware. I even went into the dollar stores at Centenoka Mall. No luck. Discouraged, I wandered into Mark’s Work Warehouse to check out some clothing.
A very friendly sales clerk asked me if she could help me. I responded, “Well, really I am looking for a Christmas tree stand.
I have searched all over town and the stores are sold out.” She surprised me by saying, “Check out the Thrift Store because I saw a bunch there.” Heartened by this news I headed there and, sure enough, there was a box full of them.
I picked one and headed for the cashier. As I was waiting my turn I remembered I had no cash and I didn’t see any Interac machines. “How much for this tree stand?” I asked. “It’s a dollar,” was the response.
With two bank cards and a Visa I still can’t buy a tree stand. A kind gentleman overheard the conversation and said I can pay for that for you sir.
That’s exactly how it happened and as I write this note, my wife is stringing lights on our tree.
Thanks to the young lady at Mark’s Work Warehouse and the kindness of a stranger, I am pleased to report that the Spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Salmon Arm.
Ronald B Stratton