Friday, June 12, 2009

God I hated retail

I cannot tell a lie - I get triple five smug when I encounter a mother who's more insane than me. Oh ho, it's rare! But sometimes I overhear a conversation so nutballs I can't help but be reassured that I'm doing okay. Take MusicalMom, for example. I found her testing out a toy piano at a children's store. Toy piano. Keep that in mind as you read.

MusicalMom (cringing): "Is this supposed to be C-flat?"
Salesgirl: "Um... Is it out of tune?"
Mom: "I was a professional violinist for 14 years. I have perfect pitch." (turning to 3-month-old daughter) "But I guess if YOU like it..."
Salesgirl: "You could probably find someone to tune it."
Mom: "I suppose I'll have to."

(Beat.)

Yep, as a parent I'm doing juuuuust fine.

6 comments:

Missy said...

O lord.

I hated retail too. I had to leave it when I found I was becoming irrationally angry with customers for merely coming in the store.

Ali said...

ME TOO! For a people-pleaser, I sure do loathe customer service.

Bern said...

I used to get angry at customers for coming in the store too! Thought I was the only one. What a relief, I'm only a little crazy.... : )

Anonymous said...

Let me add to the empathy here. Nothing shakes your faith in humanity like working retail. Except maybe movie theater audiences.

Something I haven't done yet, but hope to one day. I want to be a good customer that comes to the aid of a retail employee. I want to tell that lady that perfect pitch rhymes with perfect bitch. Isn't that a funny coincidence?

Anonymous said...

it's kristopher, by the way.

Laura said...

As someone still in retail, let me tell you, it is getting harder and harder not to bonk customers on the head or come home and drink myself to sleep.