When Community Comes Down to a Bench

A few weeks ago, during the “Royal Visit,” there was plenty of flag-waving and plenty of talk about patriotism and community. Those ideas are related, but they are not quite the same.

Community is caring about the people around you. Patriotism is caring about your country and its ideals. Sometimes they overlap beautifully. Volunteer at a local event? Community. Help preserve local traditions? Community and patriotism. Wave a flag while picking up litter? Probably both, with maybe a touch of aggressive enthusiasm.

I have been thinking about this because during the Royal Visit, while most people were celebrating, showing pride in town, and generally behaving like decent human beings, a few young people apparently decided their contribution to civic engagement would be vandalism.

A group was sitting on top of the bench outside our shop. Not on the bench — on top of it. I asked them to move, and then asked again so older folks waiting nearby could sit. It seemed like a reasonable request.

Apparently not.

Instead, part of the bench was kicked apart and shredded as if it had personally insulted someone’s ancestry. Later, I noticed carving damage on the shop window sill as well. Somewhere along the way, basic manners seem to have lost a fight.

The police and the Secret Service saw the damage. I was told it was serious and that reports would be made. There was talk of follow-up and accountability. Big words. Very official.

Then came the plot twist.

Nothing.

Eventually, I learned the issue may have stalled because — wait for it — the bench did not have a permit.

The bench.

A bench that has existed peacefully since 2019. A bench whose primary activities included supporting tired people, elderly visitors, iced coffees, and good conversations.

A bench outside a Main Street shop may seem small, but it represents hospitality, gathering, and public goodwill. That matters.

I was unaware that benches needed government documentation. My mistake. I assumed being helpful to the public was enough. Apparently, benches are expected to navigate a more rigorous regulatory process than some adults.

For years, we have supported this town by donating, promoting events, encouraging visitors, and trying to add something positive to Main Street.

So yes, I am sad. Not because of lumber. Not because of paint.

Because community is not banners, speeches, or patriotic photo opportunities.

Community is respecting shared spaces. Community is accountability. Community is teaching young people not to destroy things that do not belong to them. Community is also, maybe — just maybe — not requiring a permit for kindness with seating.

I still love this town.

I am just disappointed that one of the strongest defenses offered in this entire situation appears to have been:

“Have you considered the bench paperwork?”

Sue Laurence
Front Royal, VA

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