There was a time during the first months of the financial recession when people were really on edge, grumpy, and clearly worried about what would come next. Now that we know it’s all bad and there isn’t much we can do about it (except stimulate the economy by spending money we don’t have or use credit we can’t get), it seems we have all settled in and calmed down a bit. Portland is known for being polite, laid back, and patient. Maybe it’s different where you live, but I see that spirit increasing lately. People are more helpful, they share more, and they are clearly being kinder.
The local free weekly, the Willamette Weekly, had a photo contest recently about reactions to the recession. This photo, by Portlander Rebecca Gabriel, won the contest. Titled “Generosity in Times of Scarcity,” it is of a sign in the window of Plaza Cleaners in Portland.
Thanks to Rebecca and, especially, to Plaza Cleaners.
If anyone sees or hears about a business or individual who shows extra kindness during these tough economic times, please share it with us.
