Letters to the Editor...Cynical reader missed point of kind act

Dear editor, RE: Mother was too trusting of stranger (March 9 letter). It's regrettable that Mr. Penny has chosen only to see the `bad' in people in entirely misconceiving the point of Mrs. Baker's submission. When so often we read in the news only stories of sadness, and collectively worry over society's decay or moral descent, it was great to see that, not only do good things still happen, but little acts of kindness amongst neighbours, albeit strangers, still occur and don't go unnoticed. I am sure that was the motive behind her choosing to write in and share the story as a newer Halton Hills resident who only wanted to brighten people's day. I should know-- I am her husband. At least Mr. Penny was candid enough to note off the top that he's a jaded fellow, as the content of his letter bears out in his imagining only the worst of all parties concerned. But it's unfortunate he was so personally malicious and shortsighted in casting aspersions about this woman's ability to parent, and put no thought into the harm his words might do when my wife put so much care into the submission she had penned. But to balance his unpleasantness with some further kindness, I want to echo my wife's thanks to that pleasant elderly gentleman, who was so obviously both harmless and wellintentioned, for that moment at the restaurant when one's faith is restored about the goodness that can and does exist in this world. I certainly hope the next letter the cynical Mr. Penny deems to write is not some attack on poor Ms. Millie Edmonds (re: "Driver's kindness was greatly appreciated"-- March 9) who was generous enough to also share her warm tale of compassion and care in our community.