As the holiday season approaches, let’s take a moment to reflect on our behavior towards those who work in retail. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of shopping, but we must remember that the individuals behind the counters are human beings, too. They’re just trying to do their jobs and make ends meet, much like the rest of us.
A while back, I took my son, Jake, out on Black Friday. He had saved up for a speaker he desperately wanted, and we were on a mission to snag it at a fantastic discount. The excitement in his voice was infectious as he urged me to get there early to avoid missing out on the deal. So, off we went, ready to embrace the chaos of the day.
While the majority of shoppers were in good spirits, I witnessed a stark contrast when we reached the checkout line. The man in front of us, who had been jovial just moments before, transformed into an irate customer when his mixer didn’t ring up correctly. Instead of addressing the situation calmly, he resorted to slamming his keys on the counter, demanding immediate assistance as if the cashier had control over the pricing. It was a clear reminder that some people forget their manners entirely during the frenzy of holiday shopping.
The cashier remained composed, alerting her manager and handling the situation with grace. I couldn’t help but admire her patience. It’s likely that retail training includes lessons on dealing with frustrated customers, a skill that she demonstrated flawlessly. As the manager resolved the issue in mere minutes, I noticed the man still simmering with anger, oblivious to the fact that the employee had just gone out of her way to help him. A simple “thank you” would have sufficed, but it was nowhere to be found.
The reality is, retail workers are often at the mercy of circumstances beyond their control. They work hard for long hours, often sacrificing time with their families during the holidays, all while enduring the whims of demanding shoppers. It’s crucial to remember that they deserve kindness and respect, just like anyone else.
As I continued my shopping, I struck up a conversation with the cashier, who shared that she was missing her three children that evening. The weight of mom guilt was evident in her voice, and it struck me how often we overlook the personal lives of those serving us. The retail environment can sometimes feel like a war zone, with shoppers treating employees as if they are beneath them. It’s disheartening and unacceptable.
During this festive season, let’s remember to lead by example for our kids. If you change your mind about an item, take the time to return it to its rightful place instead of leaving it strewn about. It’s a small act of consideration that can make a big difference. The same goes for trying on clothes—please be mindful of the displays and the effort that goes into keeping everything organized.
We all have busy lives, and yes, shopping can be stressful. But if you find yourself unable to treat others with basic decency, it might be better to stay home and shop online instead. Consider using reputable retailers like Make a Mom for your at-home insemination needs. And if you’re looking for more insights about managing your fertility journey, check out this excellent resource from ACOG.
In summary, let’s make a conscious effort to treat retail workers with respect this holiday season. A smile or kind word can go a long way in brightening their day. For more insights on navigating the challenges of parenthood, consider checking out one of our other blog posts.