Here’s a story of changes I saw in myself…
Yesterday I had the distinct pleasure of having coffee with one of my dear friends from college. She brought her 18-month old daughter and I brought my 4.5 yo son to a fancy cafe that serves drinks as good as an authentic cafe in Italy.
As my son and I entered this cafe in a wealthy town, I saw only business men and women in their suits and dress clothes. That used to intimidate me, a stay at home mother.
I bought a cappuchino first; then later, a fruit bowl for my son. The fruit bowl had a price tag of $3.50. I thought that was a bit pricey for a few pieces of kiwi, pineapple, and apples. But it was okay, it’ll make my son happy and the healthiest thing there. Plus, I got to see my friend and catch up.
The cashier remarked to her co-worker, “It’s just a fruit bowl.”
When she rang me up, I handed her a $5 bill, expecting some change. I was met with, “It’s $5.46.”
Puzzled, I said, “How much was that fruit bowl?”
“$5, for eating in.”
“Oh, ok.” I handed her the rest of the money. I noticed her tone was a bit condescending to me. In the past, it would have bothered me greatly. But right then and there, it didn’t bother me.
I hadn’t done any wrong in verifying the price, since I didn’t see any tag saying $5 for eating in. But, no matter.
You see, the personal growth that’s been happening in me over the years allowed me to be free from what others think of me.
I used to be so afraid of what this or that person thought of me. I would go to great lengths to make sure I looked good or sounded polished. Whatever. That’s where the shackle of perfectionism caged me.
So back to the story…I gave her the money, she slapped the change into my hand. She didn’t volunteer to give me a receipt, so I asked for one. She ripped it off her machine and quickly gave it to me.
It felt like “let’s be done with you” was in the room. Wow, how I would have felt immense hurt in the past.
But thinking about her, I had compassion for her. It’s the shackles in her own life that cause her to treat a complete stranger with little honor.
I am amazed and incredibly grateful for such a freeing change in my own life! I hope the cashier will get set free from her own struggles.
Tags: Appreciation, mindset, success
