A little kindness would have gone a long way

A few weeks ago we said good bye to a friend and long-time resident, Virginia Bartlett. Some would say she lived a long and full life (97 years) and all of us would have to agree to that. However, her death was premature and she may have had at least a few more years with us if it had not been for an encounter she had with an individual who was sub-contracted with the city of Sandpoint for its LID sidewalk project.

Mrs. Bartlett's peace of mind and financial security were taken away from her a few months ago after trying on her own to speak with this individual about her concerns.

She was told not only would she pay for the installation of the sidewalks and retaining wall, but she would also maintain them. The cost would have been enormous for anyone, let alone a widow living on Social Security. She didn't want the sidewalks in the first place. Once the worry and stress started to set in it was just a matter of time until she had the first heart attack a week later. After a couple of strokes and another heart attack, she passed away. This lady was a good person and a good neighbor for the last 64 years. A little kindness could have gone a long way and this beautiful lady might still be here with us.

DANIEL SMITH

Sandpoint