The Power of a Smile

I was recently at one of my least favorite grocery stores. While I will not disclose any names, the store is notoriously known in our family as the store with some of the worst customer service. However, this post is not about customer service.

Though there seems to be a lack of great customer service these days.

Oh yeah, the post isn't about customer service. Anyways.

While in the checkout line of said store, the person ringing up my purchases did not say a word. Or look at me. Until she told me the amount of my purchase, I do not think she even knew I existed.

Sad.

This has happened many times at this particular chain of grocery stores. And more than once have I left fuming mad, ready to call the manager, his boss, and the higher ups to let them know of the just-plain-terrible customer service. The lack of even a small word or some sign that I, the customer, was there.

I have tried a new thing. Well, to me a new thing. I am sure many of you have already done this.

I have smiled.

"Hello, how are you today?" said in my cheeriest voice.

It amazes me how this small thing, this sentence of but five words, in addition to a heartfelt smile, will open up the grumpiest of grumps. I try it now every time I am somewhere and it is amazing the snowball effect that follows. The person behind me gets a much happier check-out lady than the one I had.

I am backing away from the ever-elusive title of Super Mom, and working now towards Happiest Lady on Earth.

We'll see what happens.

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. - Proverbs 15:30