Letters

Respectfully, I’ll omit the names and place of my very sad experience that occurred last week, right here at a local establishment in the beautiful downtown Village of Southampton.

Those who really know me know that I was born and raised here, and I care about this village and my community. And my heart’s desire is the best for all. And, being on this Earth for over 60 years, one can’t help but to learn a few things.

First and foremost, I have learned a lot about myself, as well as through my interaction with people. The good, the bad — and, yes, the ugly.

Working in the Village of Southampton for 11 years was rewarding, informative and at times a bit challenging. I had the pleasure of encountering an array of so many people in this wonderful community, approached with various topics and some exigent situations. But my motto is: “I treat people the way I want to be treated.”

So, most times, being attentive to residents’ concerns generally equated to many late lunches. So, over that 11-year span, I frequented a local restaurant sometimes two to three times a week. I was always treated well and left satisfied.

But last week I met some friends I hadn’t physically seen in months due to COVID-19 at that same establishment. But I definitively left with a very bad taste in my mouth.

Respectfully, I will not go into all the details. But I will say the owner, whom I’ve known, was shockingly inattentive and very cold, and basically ignored my request to put the outside heater on.

Sharing my story with a close friend (who, by the way, also used to frequent this restaurant), she quickly reminded me that, due to a shockingly public encounter, she will never patronize that establishment ever again.

And, unfortunately, after last week’s experience, I will follow suit.

It’s very clear that we have, sadly, entered into an unprecedented political divide with unprecedented challenges. And, sadly, resulting in the permanent severing of life-long relationships and friendships.

We as a people are better and stronger together.

One love!

Brenda Simmons

Southampton Village