Some weeks ago I wrote to the Chronicle about the aged condition of Shepherd Grade Road. Since then we’ve driven into Maryland, where we’ve found fine newly-paved and lined roads. Driving there is comfortable, giving a sense of ease.

But then we realized the value of Shepherd Grade’s potholes, fissures, and other anomalies. We who drive this road daily are quite deft at maneuvering over and around, nay, sometimes through these hazards. And this gives us feelings of pride. We surely have more confidence in our skills than do Marylanders, who drive on pristine paving.

So, Shepherd Grade drivers: let’s recognize the values of what we have. And we can thank our Jefferson County leaders for making us so good at managing this.

Paul Chalfant

Shepherdstown