To the onlooker, the work of a mail carrier seems relatively light. But imagine having to deliver letters to countless homes, rain or shine, and having to brave new faces, untrained pets, and even unpleasant folk who can’t even muster a friendly smile or even an acknowledging nod? Let’s not forget the physical effort it requires, too.
Remember how, because of a mail carrier’s observant nature, two children were rescued and brought safely back to their families? This is just one of the many things we overlook when we quickly assume one’s profession is seemingly easier compared to ours.
Thankfully, in this neighborhood, reducing one’s work and exhibiting unfriendly behavior towards postal workers is non-existent.
Floyd Martin was a mail carrier in what he calls his “favorite neighborhood” for 35 years. He was such an important part of the neighborhood and made both kids and adults alike feel at ease whenever he stopped by to deliver mail. One of the residents even shared how Martin would always have lollipops ready to give to her kids, who in turn would eagerly wait for him each time.
In a recent interview, when asked about how he would always have treats ready for the little ones, he smiled, nodded, and said, “I call them ‘my kids’. If they’re on my route, they’re my kids.”
Loved by everyone on the block because of his warm and friendly nature, neighbors agree that the good-natured mail carrier is undoubtedly a part of everyone’s family. He goes above and beyond his duty as a mail carrier, too. Martin makes sure to check in on the elderly to see how they’re doing, takes time to feed homeless cats, and basically extend his kindness towards everyone he meets. “He’s just almost too good to be true,” one neighbor enthused.
It did not come as a surprise that everyone in the neighborhood wanted to do something special for the mail carrier when the news of his retirement reached them. Sarah, along with the help of her neighbors, figured out Martin’s route and gave out fliers announcing the party they were throwing for their favorite mailman.
They even urged everyone to decorate their mailboxes! The number of decorated mailboxes, the sweet messages scrawled on the sidewalks, and the block party organized in his honor proved just how impactful Martin’s presence was in everyone’s lives. He was met with cheers, whistles, hugs, and applause – something he definitely was not expecting.
Apart from the surprise party, the neighbors took time to give speeches thanking Martin for everything he’s done over the years. They also raised money to send him on a well-deserved vacation.
“I was speechless. I could not believe that they did all that for me,” Martin confessed. He was more than just a person who delivered mail. He was family and he was appreciated in the neighborhood which he, too, grew to love.
“They love me. I love them,” Martin declared with a smile.
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