In New Orleans, that would also include the cashier commenting on every item, asking what you're planning to make with the stuff you're buying, commenting on the weather, asking where you work and what you do, calling one of the other cashiers over to discuss an interesting item that you're buying, and it would take five minutes. And the cashiers would also just about always address me as "sweetie" or "baby," which I hated.
I haven't had this experience though I had been warned that I might. Rouses and Walmart have been pretty much all business.
One thing that I *love* here is the reduction in road rage and horn blowing, though.
rats, possums ... you don't do well with wildlife, do you?
Not when they're out to kill me, no.
Central Park has 40lb raccoons. They hang out in packs and glare at your dog when you walk her. They're like fuzzy adorable little Latin Kings or Crypts.
One thing that I *love* here is the reduction in road rage and horn blowing, though.
Have you gotten used to not being able to make a left turn?
Usually, you're not just getting one thing though, right? It almost would seem strange to have someone swiping away in front of you, pretending that it was taking up all their concentration, when a "How's it going? Anything else I can help you with?" could just as easily take place in that minute or so.
One thing that I *love* here is the reduction in road rage and horn blowing, though.
I swear our state gesture should be a shrug.
In a convenience store?
swipe gum
swipe batteries
ring up coffee
And we're done.
Have you gotten used to not being able to make a left turn?
Yeah, that whole situation is weird. I sort of... pretend that I don't notice it and sort of do what I need to do.
Is this Buffista conversation 44a?
Some like a little chat. Some think it gums up the works. I can be either one depending on the day, my schedule, and/or hormones. Or how creepy I find the cashier.
So, as I just posted on fb, it's been 10 years to the day since I left for Peace Corps. Damn, can't believe it's been that long. I should dig out my diary and a bottle of wine, eat some sunflower seeds, listen to Zdob si Zdub. I thought I was preparing for a life's work in international development, and kind of hoping to meet a life partner among my fellow volunteers. Those expectations, and many others I wasn't even conscious of, bit me right on the ass. Good times.
Happy life-changiversary, smonster.
During the interview today, about the March, I did the same sort of refection...wow...it sure didn't turn out like I expected going in...but it turned out as it should have.
Honestly, if you were to see video...or even photos...of me before that event, you would not be able to pick me out of a line up now. It was THAT changing.
I'll bet the same is true for you.
when a "How's it going? Anything else I can help you with?" could just as easily take place in that minute or so.
And what's the loss even if it does take a minute? A chance to have a kind interaction with another human? Maybe it's the only one they'll have all day.
