To the editor:

It seems that Scrooge is lurking in Lawrence. A local business owner has shown a dearth of spirit, Christmas or otherwise, by deciding to “let go” a previously valued employee without explanation or notice. I’ve been assured that no theft, dishonesty, or other egregious behavior occurred and said employee leaves with an excellent recommendation from management. Co-workers were shocked and dismayed at the news, so teamwork seems not to have been an issue. I can’t presume to know your heart, but please know that you tend to get what you give. Happily, the ex-employee in this story is smart with a generous spirit and will be just fine.

Fortunately, another business owner is continuing a campaign she started last year using the pay-it-forward idea. Employees are given a cash bonus to pass along as they see others in need of a little cheer. The company president is quietly creating an ever-widening circle of kindness and positive energy. It may be contagious. An irritated “honker” was harassing the gentleman in front getting his coffee at a Florida drive-through. Rather than become irate in turn, he chose to pay for “honker’s” order along with his own. Customers repeated his action throughout the day.

A story in the Saturday Journal-World reports a similar experience at a Washington coffee shop as one act of generosity set up a chain reaction involving more than 1,000 customers, each paying for the one behind.

The times, they seem to be a-changin’: let’s celebrate!

Lisa Bailey,

Lawrence