In our newspaper’s A section on May 3, I found a ray of sun to counter the daily fog of war, politics, campaign nonsense, economic turmoil and children dying while texting.

Newsday columnist Daniel Akst, “Postal banking system could help save mail service,” suggests we use a postal savings system we discarded far too soon, and supports his argument with a report on the Postal Savings System operated by our government from 1910-1967.

On A6 is our government’s argument in favor of more cost-cutting and great reductions in service, “Postal Service needs freedom…,” which makes sense until you remember that if you cut too much off most living things, they die. This is not the desired outcome here.

Ben Franklin could tell the difference between an eagle and a turkey, and his postal service has lasted a long time, despite what we keep doing to and with it and our government.

Akst supports his case with a logic based on history, and his logic produces a positive result, nationwide.

For reasons less than mysterious, a post office for many is less intimidating than a visit to their friendly local bank, let alone the Fortress America architecture of the megabanks. Even the smallest deposit in savings is a positive act, and a safety net for later on.

Take your child along, and you are a positive role model.

Grandfather did much of his daily business in the post office lobby in Clinton, just talking with his neighbors. And thanks to Akst.

John Willey

Waterville