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:
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.
ME TOO! For a people-pleaser, I sure do loathe customer service.
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.... : )
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?
it's kristopher, by the way.
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.
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