To the editor,
I read The Coast every week. It's an important part of this city's media landscape. Along with a significant contribution to the arts, the paper is one of the few sources for deeper analysis of urban affairs, politics and environmental issues.
In other words, I like The Coast.
"Love the Way We Bitch," however, is another matter. I understand that complaints and criticism can be entertaining. This is probably your reason for maintaining this feature so long. I also see the humour in offering a counterbalance to the city's former "Love the Way We Live" slogan. It's doubtful, however, that such ranting and "bitching" contributes anything towards creating a better city. This is why I'd like to propose a new feature for your publication---the opposite of "Love the Way We Bitch."
Readers would offer compliments, praise or acknowledgement for the positive things occuring in Halifax. They could shine a light on acts of kindness, respect and consideration and expose times when people have good experiences with retail stores, restaurants and even government services. After all, in the midst of complaints and negative experiences, there are always exceptions.
As human beings, we seem naturally oriented toward a focus on problems. Maybe it's time for us to become more solution-focused. The Coast could contribute to this in a small way by highlighting what's working rather than what's not. In doing so, people might be invited to do more of what makes a difference in our city.
I'm hopeful that you'll consider this idea, if you haven't already received it before. I'd even be a willing (unpaid) volunteer to select and edit submissions.
By Barry McClatchey