As I age, there seem to be more things in the world that generally irritate me. I'm not referring to the "major " things, like the insane situation we find ourselves embroiled in, over in the middle east, or the asinine shouting match that the so-called "health-reform-debate" has degenerated into. To be sure those two subjects in particular really chap my ass.
However, what sometimes puts a smaller burr under my saddle are the little, and often mundane things that most people probably don't even think about.
One of these little mundane items is the phrase "no Problem", or "not a problem". And sometimes,when that phrase is uttered to me as a response, I am compelled to issue a sarcastic or snide remark in return. More and more often, this occurs when I am being waited on at a restaurant, bar, or almost any business where there is interaction between the customer, (me) and the business associate, most often but not always limited to someone under the age of 30. It is always proceeded by me thanking the aforementioned associate for what ever service he or she has rendered, be it a good meal, great libation, or just quick courteous service. (now, this is where that smaller "burr" gets wedged under my saddle.) Instead of a polite thank you and a smile, (the smile is optional), I get "no problem" or "not a problem". WHAT THE HELL DOES THAT MEAN?! Why isn't it a problem? Is it because I'm such a nice guy, or does the associate just happen to be in a good mood and it's not a problem this time? Or is there a hidden subliminal message meant to convey that as a pesky customer, I really am a pain in the ass, and oh, by the way, it is a problem, so next time go bother someone else?!?
When I thank a service person, it is because I feel that he or she deserves to be thanked for a job well done. I don't want to hear "no problem". It is that person's job to provide service to me in a fashion that will make me want to return to that business as a customer. And, if it ever were to be a problem, then that person is in the wrong business!
The correct response to thank you is "YOU ARE WELCOME"!
I don't know. It's probably just me entering my "grumpy old man" phase! Hell, I'd probably bitch if they hung me with a new rope!
JRSKI'S BLAB...occasional comments on whats happening, here, there, or anywhere. Remember, no matter where you go,there you are.
1 comment:
Yup - you're just a crusty old man. Our parents probably blanched when we said "cool" and "far out" (I never said "groovy") and wondered why couldn't we just talk normally and say shit like "that's the cat's pajamas"
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