Be nice

A few weeks ago, I was eating at my favorite restaurant in town. I noticed they were closed on Sundays. I asked the waitress why they were closed on Sundays. I asked because some businesses do not find it ethical to open on Sundays. Chick-fil-A is up front about their policy for not doing business on Sundays due to religious convictions. The reason for the local restaurant's closure is over religion, but not in keeping with Sabbath laws. I was informed Sunday's were a horrible day to do business because of the rudeness from those leaving church. The waitress said, "It wasn't worth the money."

My heart sunk. I was embarrassed. I began to think about all the times I have done business in this community. I began to question my own actions. On several occasions, my food orders have not been right. Sometimes, the restaurant hasn't been clean. One car dealership caught my truck on fire and then charged me the parts and labor to replace the burnt components. They are no longer in business. At times, I have been treated unfairly. Did I retaliate or react in harshness, or was I able to be nice about the situation? In retrospect, I think I always started with nice. I remember when nice didn't work and I had to take a more serious tone. I have never shouted nor have I used inappropriate language. Sometimes, the resolve is as simple as exercising my right to not go back. If I do not like the way I am being treated or service is poor, I just simply go somewhere else.

My goal is to do business locally. I would like to recognize and support the businesses that have treated me fairly. I have found Mike's Muffler to be a great place for my car and truck. Mark Bedwell is the best to wrench my motorcycle. I have bought several vehicles from S&G Auto. For my money, I can't find a better place than Pappy's Bar-B-Q. This is my opinion. I find these places are all consistent with their product and service and I think they should be recognized. Thank you for what you bring to Brazil.

To the establishments who have found it difficult to do business with those who attend church, I apologize. Nowhere in scripture have we been told to be mean, nasty or rude. To those who attend church and think rude behavior is acceptable and honors God, be nice.

Matthew 5:7, "Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy."

Please feel free to recognize any local business that has treated you fairly.