If you have been arguing with members of your household about whether the time is right for putting up Christmas decorations (ahead of Thanksgiving), perhaps try mentioning that the bells are already ringing at local retail establishments that host Salvation Army red kettles. The season has begun.

It’s hard to ignore the feeling that comes with hearing that familiar jingle as you go about your shopping and running errands. It’s harder to stay grumpy about whether it is too early for a certain Christmas song to become omnipresent or your neighbor’s roofline-high inflatable decorations to blot out the sun.

In fact, it gets easier to remember the Salvation Army’s gentle encouragement that “God loves a joyful giver.”

And right now, families all over the Mahoning Valley need what we can give: food, clothing, holiday gifts for young ones, and yes, even the few coins that are rattling around in your pocket.

Feeling guilty about not having any cash or change on you, or that you simply prefer to do your shopping and giving online? Good news. There is a way to give there, too, at https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/usc/red-kettle-campaign/.

Nothing tossed into the red kettle (virtual or otherwise) is too small a gift. What you give combines with the gifts of others to support the mission of the Salvation Army of “doing the most good” through the holiday season and beyond.

If you’d like to give on an even more personal level, look for the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree to pop up soon, with tags that will give generous donors a chance to fulfill specific Christmas wishes for children whose families sought support this year.

Ready or not, ’tis the season.

Give what you can, spread some joy and hope — and if you’re looking for a little direction, just follow the sound of those ringing bells.