Here in the Washington, D.C. area, Giant Foods, a huge grocery chain, announced a cutback of holiday hours the Salvation Army can have its renowned Red Kettles and bell ringers outside its stores. The reason: “to serve our customers, and not hinder their shopping experience.” What about people’s “civic experience” – where, for Giant Foods, does that fit in? There’s an alternative path for Giant to take.

I’ve been finishing up a new book on “intentionality” about how to make a difference in society and also stay true to yourself and there’s a section where I write about charity vs. change. There has always been a difference that has concerned me – oftentimes I think we get them confused. I still do; so I wanted to return to this topic amid the challenges we face.