Go Ahead, Just Try to Steal My Joy

My pal, Denise, is all about the joy.  This morning on facebook, she posted "if someone tries to steal your joy, let them have it -- maybe they are lacking some."

Ah.  Yes.  Just what I needed to hear.

Yesterday, I was at an agency to give a class, and the receptionist "greeted" me with a "May I help you?" in the same manner as she would have said, "You stink and I hate you."

I think the shock must have shown on my face, and at the same moment, she saw my name tag and realized that I wasn't there for assistance. An uncomfortable moment.

As I waited for my class to start (and as she avoided looking at me),  I considered what to do.  Should I say something to someone?  What would I say?  "Hey, that woman in front said 'May I help you' in a nasty tone?"  Or "You might want to have a little talk with her about customer service and civility?"

And as I waited, I noticed that her tone changed -- she seemed to be much gentler with the clients who came through the door.

And as I waited, I tried to consider her situation.  All day long, people come in and out her door, needing help.  She sees it all, I am sure.  Maybe yesterday morning, she had already seen too much for one day.  Maybe, like me, she was wondering when it became OK to wear pajamas to an appointment.  Maybe, like me, she was wondering why a mom would bring two little barefoot boys into the office; maybe she was wondering if she might have some little tennis shoes or flip flops in her garage that she could run home and get for them, because it was too chilly for bare feet.   Maybe, like me, she was just sad that so many people need help -- dollars are short, needs are great.

For yesterday's class, I had made a healthy snack mix, and since I never know how many clients I will see at this office, I made up a lot of bags, and had many left over.  So, I handed the receptionist one on my way out.  And I smiled and told her to have a good day.  That'll show her.

When I was telling Will this story last night, he said, "Good one, mom.  Kill her with kindness."

But I think Denise's way is the better way to look at it.  For a little bit there, I let that woman steal my joy.

No way, lady.  I've worked hard for this joy, and I'm not giving it up without a fight. I'll share it, though.

Peace.  And joy.