A simple letter to the famous advise columnist, Ann Landers, probably generated more publicity than any other single letter written in 4-H history. For years it was reprinted in various 4-H publications because of the good advise it presented, primarily around achievement days and following National 4-H Congress.
The letter, under the heading "A Precious Secret Few People Learn," which appeared in January 26, 1959 newspapers across the country follows:
Dear Ann Landers: I am 11 years old and I won a 4-H County Home Economics award at our Achievement Day celebration. My mother wants me to write a whole big letter to Montgomery Ward because they donated the pins.
I have talked this over with several of my friends who also won pins and nobody else has to write a letter. I seem to be the only kid with this kind of a mother.
I told her that a big company like Montgomery Ward doesn't give a hang if kids write in and say thank you for a little pin. My mother says this is not the point. She is pretty set in her ways so I thought I had better write to you for your ideas.
Please print your answer. My mother always reads your articles and she says you sure do know your onions. D.B.
DEAR D.B.: Give your mother my love. I think she knows HER onions, too – and I hope you'll listen to her.
Never mind about the other youngsters. Go ahead and write that letter to Montgomery Ward. Of course it's a big company, but big companies are made up of human beings and everyone likes to get a thank-you letter.
Your mother is trying to teach you a precious secret that most people NEVER learn in the journey from the womb to the tomb. The one who goes out of his way to do something that is not required or expected will shine like a diamond in a coal bin. Why? Because most of us are pretty lazy and unimaginative. A.L.
P.S. – Write to John A. Barr, who is chairman of the board of Montgomery Ward, and I'll bet you get a nice letter in return. (Permission granted for reproduction.)
