The writer of a recent column was offended by the gift of Pride flags to Haywood Street residents and he wrote all about it [“Unwelcome gift in mailbox: A flag that won’t be flying,” Recorder, May 17]. My perspective is different. I have lived on Haywood Street in Greenfield for 22 years. I love my neighborhood. It is made up of good people who are diverse in their age, gender, vocations, politics and more. We are not perfect, but in general we appreciate each other for who we are, help each other when we can and treat each other with respect even when we disagree. I do not for a minute believe that the writer represents the philosophy of the Haywood Street neighborhood. I received a Pride flag and a respectful letter requesting support by displaying the flag. I felt no obligation to display the flag, nor was I disturbed by the lack of a signature. I believed that the giver did not feel sufficiently safe to identify themselves. I am displaying my flag proudly. My street looks festive and welcoming with its show of colorful flags. I am not investigating who is or who is not flying this or any other flag, nor am I drawing any conclusions about why or why not folks fly the flags they choose. Had I chosen not to fly my flag I would simply have discarded it. We often fail to understand each other. I invite the writer to stop by any time for coffee and conversation.. That’s the way we do it on Haywood Street.

Chris Orlen

Greenfield