My love letter to Massachusetts, after six months together

[ChrisA70]

Originally Posted by packedandready

Dear Massachusetts,

We've been together almost six months. Certainly we've had our share of ups and downs, and sometimes I can love and hate you within the same minute.

Our good times have been wonderful. I've enjoyed your italian food, standing on a frozen Walden Pond, admiring and paying homage to the great authors who once drew inspiration from your landscape and tranquility. Your focus on education is at the very least desirable and it's always good to be particular in what ever you decide to endeavor. We shared a few moments in the fall, when I must say you really made an impression.

But then things took a turn. You became cold--both inside and out. Suddenly I began to notice that you stopped enjoying life, and your goal became nothing but getting where you were going as quickly as possible, with narily a thought as to anyone else around you. You took great offense when the car in front of you didnt lightning bolt ahead when the light turned green. I was even shoved by a clerk in the Banana Republic when I was in your way. What was so startling at first was my attempt to be kind to another human--no false pretense to be found--was met with mistrust and you refused to make eye contact. A simple "have a great day!" to the grocery store clerk, mailman or doctor's office receptionist suddenly meant I wanted something, or worse...I was being "fake." I have been insulted by comments about the hint of southern accent when I speak. Not to be harsh, but your accent isnt exactly music to the ears.

I wish you would help me understand how condescending responses, unwillingness to so much as hold a door for the person behind you or just common courtesy for your fellow man could possibly fall under "quiet reserve"?

I assure you, all your education, progressive thinking and sheer brilliance means nothing if the human dynamic--the part that really matters--sits on the back burner.

I just have one last question. Where is it that you are going that you must get there so quickly? I mean this literally and rhetorically. Is it the mortgage? the lust for progression in your career? I wish you were happier!

I hope you take these thoughts and realize that this may be just one more opportunity to "lead the way" to someone who is obviously pensive about her surroundings. "First seek to understand, then to be understood." Please believe me, Im trying.

Warm regards,
Packedandready

WHAT THE...............??????????????????????

[ChrisA70]

People in Western Mass. are VERY different than the people of EASTERN Mass. I lived in both I know. I love Western Mass, easy going, laid back...