My Instead: I did several acts of gratitude for
my favorite hardware store (Basic Hardware) that is finally closing its doors
after 30 years.
Today I returned a hammer drill that I borrowed
from my favorite hardware store, Basic Hardware. Yes, I borrowed it, just like
you would from a friendly neighbor. I didn’t have to rent it for $30 for a
4-hour time period. I had it for 24 hours and they lent it to me for nothing.
But that’s the kind of treatment that I’m used to receiving at Basic. They are “free”
flowing with help and advice. And now my “neighbors” are leaving. I will no
longer be able to call, drop in, borrow, or inquire. But I am so thankful for the
time I’ve had with them “by my side”.
After dropping off the hammer drill and purchasing
some half-priced classy knobs for my bathroom cupboards, I stopped by the local
newspaper, the Belleville News Democrat. I spoke with a reporter named Will (didn’t
catch his last name). I expressed my sadness to him about Basic Hardware
shutting down, in hopes that he would do a feature article about them. He told
me that he had already done a small business piece about Basic’s closing. I
didn’t know about that. After my “oh well”, he encouraged me by saying that he
may just do another “reminder” article since the last one was 6 or 7 weeks ago.
I smiled, expressed my thanks, and left weeping. Why is this so emotional for
me?
Then I went to Eckert’s Florist and ordered a
small flower arrangement to be delivered to Basic the next day with this note: “I’m still searching for the words to
express my appreciation for ALL the help you’ve so willingly given me thru the
years. I’m forever grateful…”
Then in the evening I sent a letter to the editor
of the Belleville News Democrat for them to post in the Readers’ Forum. It said
this:
Back to Basics
My mom told me some disappointing news several weeks
ago: Basic Hardware is closing its doors. I didn't want to hear this. As a
divorced woman of 23 years, I have gotten LOADS of advice from "my
guys" at Basic that has been invaluable to me. Everyone there has always treated
me with respect and has never made me feel like I couldn't do something because
I was a woman. They would keep advising me until they were sure I understood
and was able to do what they said.
It's a sad time for me and for many others to
lose this "Mom and Pop" shop. Belleville is losing a respectable and
knowledgeable business with great owners and employees. I will miss them all.
Thank you, Kenny, and thanks to all “my guys”!
Gratitude…it
NEVER gets old, wears out, falls on deaf ears, leaves a bad taste in your mouth,
causes gossip, or breaks hearts. It just is.
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