To the Editor:
This article ["Reynes Shares Something Sweet," March 3, Gazette Packet] provides wonderful insight on the beauty of passion, hard work, and interdependence in one’s own community. In today’s thriving, modern society, especially in a city like Alexandria, there is more isolation between people and there is a lack of appreciation for the contributions made to keep the society running. Our world strives on interdependence and unfortunately, in our highly individualistic society, we have become estranged from the holistic view that we rely on each other to live.
Moreover, with most goods, it is common to see a lack of passion and complete alienation from the process of production because there is a sense of creating products for people you don’t know.
I appreciate Julie Reynes’ story of her aspiration to build a business involving a creation of her very own. The writer does an excellent job at describing the “behind-the scenes” look at the creation of her stuffed dates, including all person’s involved in the process. This allows the reader (especially those who are familiar with Reyne’s product) and future customers to gain an appreciation for the creator (the supplier) and the line of production. Additionally, it’s wonderful to read about someone in our community who loves putting passion into their own product.
B. Victoria Acosta
James Madison University
Alexandria