[WeeklyUniverse.com]
I recently discovered
I was living in a bubble called "The City."
I've had unusual experiences
outside the city. Usually, it's kids staring, parents telling them
not to, people whispering. It still amuses me when, in a smaller
town, the little punk/alternative kids give me a head nod and a 'hey' or
'what's up?' ... heh, I'm cool now!
Recently,
I was at my favorite arts & craft store (which is in suburbia) and
noticed that I was being watched. I had been in there a while, filling
up my cart quite well. Sensing that I was watched, I turned around...
I saw
a middle-aged man wearing an employee shirt. (Later, I find out he's
the manager.)
He says,
"I see you've been in here a while. Is there anything I can help
you with?"
Excuse
me?
I say,
"Nope!" and walk away.
I have
been in this store countless times and probably spent hundreds of dollars
(just to furnish my wedding alone!), and although I was usually with my
mother, or had a more natural hair color, I'd never had a problem with
anyone there.
I'm not
scary looking. I'm 5'2", and look like I'm still in high school. I have some piercings. I change my hair color as often as I can without
it falling out. I love being able to express myself, however I choose. I like being able to go to the grocery, or out to dinner, and not get stared
at or ignored by employees.
I do not
pose any threat ... or do I?
I continue
shopping and try not to be offended, as I know I'm still being watched. Does he think I'm going to shoplift? Or start knocking down displays
just for fun? (Although that thought amuses me, I know if I start
laughing it could make the situation worse).
I eventually
get everything I need, pay for it, and leave the store.
Next time,
I shop there without incident, so I chalk it up to a new manager.
A couple
of months later, I'm at this store again, and the manager's there, giving
out free promos. He tells the employee next to him that they only
have a few left, so he's giving them to regular customers.
I decide
to try my luck.
I go up
to him and ask if I can have one of the freebies. He looks at me,
and smiles. "Sure! You shop here. I see you all the time!"
Heh!
After
I leave the store, I chuckle to myself. I've only been there twice
in the past four months.
At least
I'm memorable.
Copyright 2002 by Christiana Milton.
Christiana Milton has
e-mail.
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