THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, December 28, 1995 TAG: 9512280021
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
Yes, Virginia, there is a Grinch!
Two weeks before Christmas we mailed our packages from the 20th Street post office in Norfolk to various relatives around the country. Four days later, my sister called from Mendham, N.J., with very disturbing news. Upon opening the package from us, she found that it was empty except for a few pieces of bubble wrap. The package had been ``rifled.''
My sister went straight to her post office (where they know her well) and asked them what they knew. At this point, we are certain that the package arrived in Mendham in its current state, which means that the entire contents were stolen and the package retaped either in Norfolk or on the way to New Jersey.
The package contained just the right presents for each of my sister's family. Now, rather than six happy people, our family has nine unhappy and disheartened members. We are especially disappointed that we are no longer able to rely on the United States Postal Service.
The most discouraging lesson in this incident is trying to explain to our daughter - who is 10 - that Christmas is not just a season for love and generosity and devotion, but one where all trust has been broken.
We hope that the presents were passed along in the spirit in which we had intended them and that they are being enjoyed. After all, even the Grinch had his redeeming features.
Next year it is United Parcel Service all the way.
NICK and TRINKETT CLARK
Norfolk, Dec. 22, 1995 by CNB