It was a humid, blistering summer afternoon. I had been tasked with pricing clearance items outside on the garden center patio, and I felt like a swamp demon within two minutes of beginning my task. As I wiped the sweat from my brow, I noticed a regular enter the garden center gates. So, I put my equipment down, made eye contact, and flashed my signature smile as I called out “doing alright today?” Apparently, Mr. Customer was doing more than alright…
Before I knew it, he began serenading me some song likely from his childhood. I forced my smile as I felt discomfort wash over me. How do I get myself out of this one? I thought, as I took a small step backwards. Unfortunately, I was the only person working in the garden center at the time, so I couldn’t signal to a friend to help out. So, I did the next best thing — starting walking with the customer towards the sliding doors. I made mention of how warm it was that day as we felt the blast of air conditioning hit our faces.
He went on his way to go shopping, and I breathed a sigh of relief. What a strange encounter that was!
