The woman punctuated each word with a jab into the air in the direction of the bakery clerk. Although I didnt hear everything the agitated woman said, it was clear she was unhappy and she was making sure this young clerk knew it. The clerk silently allowed the woman to continue her loud diatribe even though by now the womans face was twisted and red. A man near me slowly backed his shopping cart away as the heat of the womans attack became uncomfortable to witness. Finally, though, the woman wore herself out ranting. The young clerk didnt harden her expression or answer angrily back. She pulled out an order pad, flipped a few pages back and showed the angry woman some things written on it. The anger fizzled out of the woman as she ducked her head and put her hand to her face. I could hear her saying, Oh, Im so sorry! I didnt realize I had the date wrong...Im so embarrassed. I didnt hear what the young clerk told her, but I did see her pat the now spent woman on the arm and smile at her as she explained. The woman who ranted and the clerk parted with smiles. That young clerk was wise beyond her years. Its not weakness, but great strength that allows a response in kindness when attacks like that come. Relentless kindness, especially when given to those who dont deserve it, changes the atmosphere. I want to be an atmosphere changer today.
Posted on: Mon, 10 Nov 2014 14:17:27 +0000
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