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・"Well Done, Post Office"

15 years ago, as a student opening my first account at a private bank, I was particularly impressed by the excellent standard of service given by the clerk behind the counter. My experience with the Post Office, by way of contrast, was an unpleasant one. The atmosphere was more like a "government office" than a bank. Since these early days, I developed a deep distrust for the Post Office.

Recently, I moved house, and submitted a "change of address" form to the Post Office Soon after, I received my first letter at my new residence . Marveling at how fast the change had been implemented, I soon realized that the letter was in fact a greeting card from the Post Office welcoming me to the new neighborhood. A package of useful information was attached.

Everybody, no matter what the situation, appreciates being made to feel welcome. Since this incident, my evaluation of the Post Office could not fail to change.

 

・Closing the Public Library at 5pm is Much Too Early

I went to my local public library the other day after school to check some material for a project I was working on. The library, however, was already shut with a "We Close at 5pm" sign on the door. My school finishes at 4pm, and it takes nearly an hour to get home. With this early closing time, I have no opportunity to ever use the library. Many people who study or work in the daytime would like to use the library later in the evening.

There is much more information available at the public library than the library in my school, and, as such, I would like to make use of it. I am not asking that the library stay open until very late at night. I think 7 or 8pm is reasonable, and would allow many more people an opportunity to use the library.

I hope that more consideration will be given to the needs of the people, and that the library is made more convenient for all.

 

・Unoccupied Riverbank

I was walking along the riverbank one afternoon quite recently after a night of heavy rain. A team of 20 or so youngsters in baseball uniforms, and a group of 10 foreigners with a volleyball, began playing on the green by the riverbank.

Shortly after they started, a truck pulled over and the official that stepped out ordered the two groups to disperse. The reason given, apparently, was that the grass would be damaged.

This incident reflects the pettiness displayed by some of those in the front-line of the public service. While it is understandable perhaps that a permit be required to use public ground for sports purposes, why can't a permit be granted on the spot, a simple convenience for a wet and unoccupied riverbank ? As for protecting the grass, repair or change it if need be.

In contrast with this bleak and unoccupied bank, the other side of the river is crowded with people and activities.

 

 

 

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