Stories of Kindness from Around the World

A Customer's Gift


--by s.cheetham, posted Nov 6, 2012

I recently returned to work after taking time off to recover from an operation on my elbow.

On my first day back, I was the cashier in the basket-only line, as I was unable to assist with packing goods into bags due to my elbow.

However, it got busy and a lady came to my line with a full cart. I didn't complain, and gave her some bags so that she could pack her goods. Towards the end of the sale, the lady suddenly exploded, shouting at me for not helping with her packing and calling the manager over to complain about me.

My manager started to help with the packing, and she explained that it was my first day back after being in hospital. But the woman continued to shout that it was no excuse.

Once she had gone, I tried to continue serving. But I was so shaken that I burst into tears during the next customer. My manager took over and sent me for a cup of tea.

Afterwards, when I returned to the shop floor, I found that the next customer in the queue had made a point of telling the manager I had done nothing wrong. He then had gone out and come back with a huge bunch of flowers to cheer me up!

It went from the worst moment at work to the nicest, and I completed the rest of my shift with a massive smile on my face. :)

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Readers Comments

Glowworm wrote: Wow. That first person...Maybe they have secret hurts, but that was no excuse to treat you that way.

As for the man with the flowers...What a wonderful human being to do such a kind thing!

Wonderful story! I hope you're recovering well. Take care of yourself.

God bless,
"G"
rjpaddy wrote: Really nice of the two. Take care.
God Bless,
rjp
MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: Awww, how nice! I am glad another customer made it a point to tell them you did nothing wrong and love the flowers! :)
starryskies wrote: So wonderful! There's always the opportunity for something good to come out of every situation. :)
annjav wrote: Sounds like your first customer needs a "time out". But i'm glad your manager and the flower bearer made it better for you. Heal quickly!
Ricky wrote: When we are aware of our surroundings, we can watch people, and notice things that a person who is in a hurry would not notice. I would encourage each one who reads this to be vigilant about becoming aware of everything and everyone around you. And be prepared to contribute to someone's day in a positive way, each day. It is a wonderful way to live.
stars24 wrote: I hope you are feeling better. I will pray for your complete recovery. God bless you.
grandma wrote: That old saying comes to mind: "live a life so that your friends could defend you, but never have to. " and you did just as you should. And another person comes along to defend you in times of need. Feel blessed. God works in mysterious ways! :)
Pat wrote: So glad that there was a kind soul in line next with a compassionate heart.
maryg wrote: What a great response from your manager! We all need to be more patient and tolerant in all situations. Hope your elbow heals quickly.

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