Good day, Boyd
My wife says sometimes I wake up on the wrong side of the bed and look for something to gripe about. Judging from your recent letter, sounds like this may have happened to you. At my age, I find it much more fulfilling and rewarding to count my blessings.
Waiting in line at the bank allows more time to visit with friends or strike up conversations with others I may not know. Folks at my bank are very friendly, helpful and treat people as special and important. I don’t mind a short wait and, if I am in a hurry, it is usually because I didn’t plan my time well. Same goes when driving, if I am late for an appointment, it is my fault for not planning in advance, not the person in front of me who is not going as fast as I feel they should be to accommodate me. Sometimes you have to put the blame where it originates.
“Cops,” as you call them, are not really “snipers” lying in wait just looking for an opportunity to ruin somebody’s day by writing them a ticket. However, if you or anyone else is guilty of violating the law, then I would expect them to do their job and so should you. I am confident in their experience and judgment. Our law enforcement “officers” as well as our firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs are the “good guys” and should be considered such with respect. They are our “unsung heros.” If their “speed traps” save even one child, pedestrian, or other citizen from the pain of an accident, that makes it worth the expense. Their job is to protect us all and, in my humble opinion, are very much taken for granted until needed in an emergency.
Standing in line an issue? You were in the military, too, and there is really no comparison now is there? At least you are not getting shots in both arms like we had to then.
Try making your next list one of all the alternatives instead of what ticks you off. My bet is that your improved list will outweigh any gripes you have. I make that a challenge.
Right now I am going to go outside and enjoy this beautiful day and be thankful for all the good things and good people that surround little old me. I will smile, wave and speak to all the friendly folks I encounter and even wave at our police officers as I drive the posted speed limit past them. Hopefully, I may even see you, Boyd, to look you in the eye, shake your hand and wish you a healthy, happy day. I will even let you cut in line ahead of me at the bank.
Life is too short to be a “Grump,” and I intend to savor every minute I am blessed with, and Boyd, I sincerely wish you the very same.
BOB COTTINGHAM
Pea Ridge, Ark.