A Few Notes from Target

You know, in this world of instant gratification, instant pleasure, and technological muscles that are flexed a bit too often, I had a perfect experience at work today. And it didn't come from my iPhone, or an e-mail, or anything of the sort. It came from good old fashioned one on one human interaction, face to face.

I was on the sales floor pushing product and intent on getting my job done so I could get the hell out of there. (Even though I had a few hours left.) However, as I was traveling down the aisle, I heard a voice behind me. For any of you who have worked retail, you may have felt this feeling before, the I-just-want-to-get-off-the-floor-before-anyone-spots-me game. I was nearly home free when a woman stopped me. I sighed mentally and wheeled around, expecting to find a 'tuned-in', Starbucks wielding, soccer mom intent on asking where she can find the latest doodad or gadget.

Instead, I found an elderly woman. A bit of my agitation melted away. And then, it all disappeared. This woman was in a wheelchair. One of those fancy Target branded scooter-chairs you can get at the front of the store. Her basket full of a few essentials and she was gazing at the '50% off' endcap.

'Could you tell me how much those are?' she said pointing at the package of paper towels. 'I didn't bring my glasses. So I can't read the prices.'

I answer.

'Okay how about those,' she was now pointing at a two-pack of New Zealand Spring Febreze spray 'have you tried it? Is it good?'

I answer.

'Is it a good price? I don't know for sure.'

After we discuss the price and if she wants the smell, I place the two-pack of New Zealand Febreze spray in her cart. Along with a disgustingly pink two pack of something exotic. I think it is called 'Thai Garden' or something.

She points at the top shelf where some tissues and spoons reside. The spoons are on sale for 74 cents, nearly half off. I place a package of spoons in the basket at the front of her scooter.

All in all, I help her put a package of paper towels in her basket (and later out when she decides she doesn't want them), some Febreze, and some spoons. Not exactly acts of kindness worthy of sainthood. But I can't help but think that perhaps this woman, wherever she is, is thinking about the nice young man at Target. Or at least I hope so.

So, I'm not sure why I wanted to share this story with you. Perhaps it is because just when you think that you're taking yourself too seriously or you feel your life is a tad too rotten. Take some time and think about how we're not entirely alone in this world. No matter how often it may feel that way. Because in this tuned in world complete with all the gadgets and whatever to make us feel connected, isn't it the wonder of the world, that when you hang up after talking to a loved one, you feel more lonely than before. Or when that someone doesn't text you back, you wonder about your friendship. Who knows I suppose.

I hope this post finds you well.

cheers,

jon