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May 31, 2006
Bribing the Post Office.
Our parents' generation are so quick to remind us that there was a time when you could pop a First Class stamp on a letter, post it before 5pm and it would arrive at its destination first thing THE VERY NEXT DAY.
I know, I know it is pretty difficult to comprehend but once upon a time that was the meaning of a First Class stamp; a first class service, even the letter’s Second Class cousin would faithfully follow a couple of days later.
Now I’m informed that despite our grander network of roads, apparently faster vehicles and (ahem) efficient train system, a First Class stamp, no longer guarantees next day delivery. If I want my letter to be delivered properly I have to fork out for what they now call Special Delivery.
I can’t help but to feel as if I’ve been had. I‘m disappointed in the Post Office for taking advantage of those in a vulnerable position. ‘Cough cough Ms Elephant, if you slip us a couple of extra quid we’ll do our job properly, if you see what I mean.’ My letter had to arrive the next day, so I had no choice but to give in to their underhand demands.
Some might say that this has more to do with my rocky relationship with deadlines than the decline in our postal service but they can say what they like, I’m not listening.
As with all dodgy exchanges of money, I can’t help but wonder if this is the first foothold on a very slippery slope. That seemingly sweet old lady visited me in my dreams last night, my important letter was hovering over the paper shredder and the most evil grin spread across her face as she said, ‘Slip us your life savings Ms Elephant or the letter gets it.’
Posted by purple elephant at May 31, 2006 11:06 AM