Dec. 1, 2025 Editor, The News-Gazette: I recently had a most heartwarming encounter that showcases the true spirit of the holidays.
Let me begin by saying how much I admire The News-Gazette’s partnership with Rockbridge Christmas Baskets. For those unfamiliar, it works like so: You write a check to Rockbridge Christmas Baskets and deliver it to the newspaper office, and in return, your subscription to the paper will be extended by a year. Wanting to support this worthy cause, I sat down Monday, Nov. 24, and wrote a check to the Christmas Baskets program, intending to drop it off in person.
My errand list that day was long, and it began with a trip to the Laundromat to wash a very large bedspread. Leaving the Laundromat, I thought I saw a piece of paper flutter from the car to the ground, but I wasn’t sure, and a peek under the vehicle revealed nothing. I then drove downtown to drop off the check — only to discover it missing! That’s what had fallen out of the car. I pondered my options — including a return to search again — but thought it wasn’t worth the effort. Discouraged, I headed home.
At approximately 5:30 p.m. that evening, I saw headlights outside. My visitor asked, “Are you Mary ... from the Laundromat?” This selfless individual had not only found my check but driven out of his way to return it. I thanked him profusely and offered to pay him, which he refused.
So, in the true spirit of the holidays, I invite your readers to emulate this very kind soul and do right by your neighbor. We are privileged to call the Rockbridge area home for many reasons, but chief among them is the neighborly spirit and willingness to do what’s right. I could not be prouder to call this community my home. MARY L. PRICE Lexington
