I don’t what was up today. Teddy Bear Man approached the desk. He was overcome by a pretty young woman sitting near him. He was smiling and waving to her, but unable to speak well. He kept apologizing, a little embarrassed.
“You’re fine,” I said. “No problem.”
“You always treat me so well,” he said, suddenly articulate. “You remind me of my Aunt Renee. That’s why I come to you so much. Why is that? Do you understand where I’m coming from?”
I was sort of stunned. How do sum up your personal philosophy for someone who may melt down in the next three seconds?
“I just think everyone is worthwhile,” I said.
He pointed his finger at me. “That sounds like something my Aunt Renee would say,” he said. “If she were here, she’d probably shake your hand and say ‘God bless you for treating my Boo-boo so good.’”
“Thank you,” I said, and he walked away.
Not ten minutes later, the head of Maintenance came up. He stops and says, “Hi,” and “Have a good day,” pretty often. Today he said, “I just wanted to tell you that you always seem very professional, and from my point of view, very helpful to the patrons. I wanted you to know that,” and he moved on.
It surprised me. You never know who’s watching you, I guess. It sort of made me feel like a piano was going to fall on me – people saying nice things out of the blue, like it was some kind of eulogy or something.
Can I just say it to you? You are doing a good job. You are helping people who may never let you know, but who appreciate your kindness. When you treat people with respect, other people notice. Someday, that smile you give someone will come back to you.
Like now. Don’t worry – no pianos.
I just wanted you to know.
And, of course - pass it on.
