We were proud as we watched them discuss how they were going to put the flyers in the news section and then put each full bundle in the plastic bags.

We were proud as they walked off with their cart the first time and successfully completed their route. We are still proud every Thursday afternoon as they wait for the van to drop off their papers and they scramble to get them all delivered that same evening, despite any other plans they may have.

Finally, it came time to collect for customer donations. We reminded them that not everyone will give them money, and they understood that.

We gave them a notebook and pen, instructed them on how to keep track of their houses and that they must be polite and let the customers understand that they don't have to donate anything.

I went with them since they were handling money, but stood out of sight as they rang doorbells and knocked on doors.

That's out of sight. Not out of earshot.

I was proud as I listened to them introduce themselves and use their best manners in explaining why they were there.

Then I was appalled.

Appalled at just how rude some people can be to two little boys who are trying to do something positive. Don't get me wrong. A good number of people were very polite and/or very generous.

But there were also a considerable number who were downright blunt and rude.

Let's try to remember that most Review carriers are kids. Kids who have chosen this particular method to provide a service to make a dollar.

I'm sure all carriers understand that not every customer is going to shower them with toonies and loonies. However, if you're not, at least remember that they are merely kids. Hostility is never an option.

And to those who were very kind to the boys, thank you. You really made them happy.

A proud carrier parent, Waterdown