Books and Pointed Pinkies

I'm currently employed at a retail store. It's temp work and part-time. I love my job although, the pay is utterly humbling. I haven't made this little an hour since I did childcare in my teens. The upside is my discount on books, DVDs, and music.

Last night, I dealt with Ms. Mobile Queenie. I can't stand people who treat you like subhuman for *helping* them.  The Mobile Queen threw her books towards me while she talked on her cell phone. She never once made eye contact or even acknowledged me while taking her most important phone call.

Was it really? NO.

Her grandma wasn't in the hospital. There was no mega sale at Macy's. Her best friend was not going into labor. Her doctor didn't have test results and she didn't get an interview. This was HUGE!  

Did you see Britney Spears' dog? I want one like that. The picture was so cute, with her dog...he was like, eating a $180 steak. 

Ohmygaah! NO WAY!


After sending a projectile credit card my way, she snapped up the bag. I just wanted to return the girl to reality by scissor kicking her head back to her prom. I just smiled and said, "Thank you and have a nice day".

TRANSLATION: "I hope you can dial with that phone shoved up your nether regions."

I am acutely aware of how customers treat me. But I run across all types. My very favorite is those who ask me if I read a book and then proceed to list every book they have ever read as if to proclaim and prove their intelligence.

I would argue then, that this alone makes me the epitome of class, surrounded by books while I use high falutin' words. I even point my pinkie when I drink my coffee.

I strongly suspect it is the commonly low level of competence for customer service that most have experienced elsewhere. People have given up on meeting an employee that has more than one brain cell in use.

"Yu-huhhh"

"Just a sec.."

"kay...uh-huh"

"Yahhh"

This is sad but true.

I do like the work and the general atmosphere but despise how I am treated. I just restrain myself behind my little counter and resort to sharing break-room stories and eye-rolling which is every bit therapeutic. Most of my customers are not difficult, but I get a handful every day that keep me amused, and thankful that I'm teaching my children manners and respect.

~Bee should recommend more etiquette books