My husband and I lived in Lynchburg from 2013-2020. This past summer we moved back.

I am writing to share some of the many reasons that we are cherishing the opportunity to live in Lynchburg again. During the first month or two after we moved back, I sent our children a series of Lynchburg anecdotes. Here are just two examples:

At a local restaurant I quietly asked the bartender to add a little CocaCola to my too strong drink. He said, in quick succession: "I'm sorry, we only have Pepsi, but give me just a minute, I'll be right back." In no time, he returned, set a can of Coke on my table, and waved off my offer to pay.

Having set out to do some grocery shopping, I discovered I had left my purse at home; no driver's license, no money, no cell phone. Mentally regrouping, I thought I might borrow a twenty from my hair stylist. I went to the salon, but no one was there except a gentleman I had never seen. We chatted briefly and as I turned to leave, he said, "Well, just a minute, how much do you need?" A total stranger loaned me $50, saying I could just repay him "next time I was out that way."

Stories like these (and I have many more) simply don't happen in other places. It is the people of Lynchburg who transform this place from a nice town to a genuine community. People here are courteous to each other and treat each other with respect; they care about their neighbors and go out of their way to help them; they are quick to welcome newcomers.

What a privilege to spend every day surrounded by the beauty of nature and the finest people.

LESLIE ROBERTS

Lynchburg

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