Getting Real in the Safeway Checkout Line

I was reminded this morning of why I almost never go to Safeway. As I started a busy day, I ran into Safeway for a couple of things. When I got to the checkout, there was one line open and it was backed up with folks with full carts. My immediate reaction was, "Great, now I am going to start the day off behind." Before I left the store, my mind was changed.

As the older couple ahead of me began to check out, I noticed the cashier engaging them in conversation. She called them by name. I'll call them the Smiths. Mr. Smith told her they'd lost a cow. The cashier said she was sorry. Mrs. Smith said it was too early in the morning to talk about that. Mrs. Smith told the cashier she was using the coupons that the cashier had given her the last time they were in. The cashier said "You saved $8.50 and here are some more coupons for next time." Mrs. Smith responded, "You always take care of us."

After she had paid, Mrs. Smith leaned in and quietly asked, "How is your mother?" The cashier smiled and loudly said "She is doing fine and I didn't have to go down south after all. Thank you for asking Mrs. Smith." Mrs. Smith said, "I am so glad to hear that. I was afraid to ask last time we were in."

As I headed out of the store, I wasn't thinking about running behind. I was thinking about what a good life it is when we take the time to engage with the people around us. And, I was thankful for this little reminder to keep it real and not get hung up on things that don't really matter like being a few minutes late to a Saturday breakfast with friends.