MAKE IT EASIER

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24414, 27 September 1940, Page 9

MAKE IT EASIER

TO THE EDITOB

Sir, —Kindly allow me space to address a few words to the public. One of the great consolations about a time like the present is that people for the most part are generous—generous with their money, and also in devoting many tiresome hours, which in their goodness of heart they are willing to sacrifice. Some would seem to be really acting up to the Biblical remark about its being more blessed to give than to receive, but ask any of those good souls who carry a collection box, tempt with a badge, or offer a lucky number in a raffle, ask any one of them what provocation they have to tolerate, and the answers will astound you. " Scram " was the injunction given to a lady collector recently, while another bore the insulting threat of violence to her person when a " gentleman" expressed the wish than a handful of gravel was handy. Treatment such as this is having a depressing effect on those responsible for the organising of street collections for a worthy cause. It becomes increasingly difficult to enlist the assistance of such workers, and can it be wondered at? May I plead with citizens generally to bear the street collectors and show them the consideration their self-appointed task demands, remembering there is nothing mercenery in their labours. Such means of collecting money have long been employed in support of many a worthy cause, and the campaign now being conducted surely eclipses anything jet presented to the citizens. It is true there are many calls on the people's purse. What if there are still more to come? Let us meet them all with due consideration for those who greet us on the street with a rattle or a raffle. Please don't snub them. Remember theirs is not a pleasant job. they don't have to do it. most of them detest, the work; make it easy for them Let not the appeals of the street sellers make us resentful, rather greet them with that courtesy which their mission demands. For many weeks ahead the citizens will find themselves approached on all sides; they cannot all give or give to all. but let them meet the sellers with a smile, a kindly word, and the work will become less irksome —I am, etc.. Make it Easier. Sept. 26.