"Bracing For It"

I’d like to speak with the store manager.

Six weeks into COVID,
   my favorite supermarket of Bay Area Correctness
   felt like quite a circus,
   minus the quaint music and promises of a flying trapeze.
Nor were there animals of uncertain origin
   dressed to delight children of all ages,
   running in formation for all of 90 seconds.

The manager will be right with you.

The isles of this hallowed institution were bursting
   with strange two-legged creatures,
   nervously holding phones next to their masks
   in search of baking supplies and legacy microbrews.

I’m the manager. How can I help you?

Maybe it was our time to finally experience what others
   in less fortunate countries have encountered
   for decades —
   sanctions, embargoes,
   and other acts of financial terrorism.

Hi there, I was in the Supplements Department . . .
   I could see the manager’s face began to tighten
   underneath her mask.
and I asked for some help from a short Hispanic woman.
   The manager’s eyes began to dilate as she held her breath.
Clearly she was bracing
   for the umpteenth complaint from a customer since COVID.
This woman was incredibly helpful
   and I just wanted to let you know
   what a great employee you have!

Instantly, the manager’s face released a lifetime of stress
   and then lit up like
   the Sun smiling.

I left with the hope that this manager didn’t have to brace herself
   the next time feedback lands in her lap.
And that kindness can come at any time,
   and from anyone . . .

 

 

 

April 2020

 

back

 

©2020, Michael Smolens