Dear Maggie Montclair,
I have been a widow for three years and doing quite well. I have friends and activities, but I find that doing something for someone else, everyday, gives me the most pleasure. Let me tell you what happened last week.
At the first of the month, someone moved in across the hall. I didn't see the people, but did see some of the furniture. Among the various pieces was a baby crib. I know how busy young mothers are, so yesterday when I was baking cookies for our church "shut-in" program, I made some extra oatmeal cookies, put them on a pretty paper plate, wrapped it in saran wrap and added a red bow to give the suggestion of Valentine's Day.
At 10:00a.m., I knocked on the door with cookies in hand. An attractive young woman in her twenties opened the door. I explained that I lived across the hall and thought she might like some of the cookies that I had just baked. She looked at me. She looked at the cookies. She said, "we don't eat raw sugar" and shut the door in my face. Apparently she doesn't like old ladies either.
What do you make of all this?
Can't even give away my cookies in Denver
Dear Cookie Monster,
I wish you had knocked on my door! Many people are careful of their sugar intake, but that is no reason to be rude.
When someone makes a friendly gesture, it is the normal and hospitable reaction to thank them sincerely and then, when you are alone you can do what you want to do with the gift. That is why re-gifting is so popular.
When you see her, always give her a smile and friendly "hello." She is young and must not realize the value of a good neighbor.
This is an opportunity to teach her by your example. Most of all, don't let one rude person spoil your giving nature. The world needs more neighbors like you. M
