Mail, memories at risk

Nobody has more respect for the U.S. Postal Service than I. I use it, admire it and plan to do so for many years to come. The Postal Service was very prominent in the settlement and development of this country. To this day I don’t know of anything more pleasurable than receiving a hand-written letter or card from a loved one or friend. The loops and curls in the hand-written letter from a grandchild or loved one far away and the warmth you feel as you open the envelope cannot be duplicated by an e-mail letter sitting on a computer.

There are many factors causing problems in the mail service, both in the unions and management. I believe the unions have played a large part in the ballooning of costs. Wages and pensions have skyrocketed over the years. Everyone is entitled to a living wage and pension, but excess here is evident.

In management it seems to me from observation that in many cases administration costs are top-heavy. Both sides must make concessions before we crumple up this service like an old envelope and throw it away.

James A. Nelson

Spokane