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In the early days, there weren’t the vast chain stores of today. Most stores would probably be no larger than a 1000 square feet, some even smaller.

Today, stores are so large that you could spend all day browsing. Shelves are filled with goods of every kind, so many that it might take a week to see them all.

It wasn’t always like this. There was a time when most things were made or grown right here in our own country, which helped feed thousands of people. Now, though, things have changed. Don’t get me wrong, as I’m not against progress, but I do think that some of this growth has brought its own problems.

Let’s take one store that was usually in every town be it small or large. The hardware store. Years ago where I lived, we had one called Wilcox. The old wooden floors had a personality of their own, as when you walked upon them, they seem to talk to you. The owners in hearing these sounds would know exactly where or if there was someone in their store without even seeing them.

On entering the store, the smell of leather, steel, and other goods would welcome you as would the owner. One main ingredient that is missing today is the personalized service. Oh, they try hard like at Walmart with greeters at their door, or in other stores with folks in isles waiting to serve you, but it isn’t the same. The small store atmosphere was unique; you knew the owners, they knew you, and the best par was, if you were low on cash, usually they would let you have what you needed till you were a bit more flush.

You could even sit down on a keg of nails and join in a conversation, or just listen, without anyone giving you funny looks. I sure miss those days. Truth be told, there are a lot of little things like that I miss.

Old Mr. Wilcox said one time, just before he closed up, “It’s not about dealing with friends anymore, George. It’s all about business. People today like the big stores and all the glitter. It’s not their fault, though, as that’s their way of life. At our store, we offered free advice taken from years of experience, but these days they don’t even ask. They head straight to the checkout, then go on the internet. I can’t say I blame them, since they can get a movie showing them exactly what to do, usually for free.

They say it’s just a sign of the times, and in many ways, that’s true. But on behalf of the little stores, I’d like to add this: memories are worth sharing, and the people behind those stores deserve to be remembered.

If it weren’t for you paving the way, these giants wouldn’t be here. And just like in the story of Jack and the Beanstalk, even the biggest giants can be brought down, which is something we’re starting to see happen now

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