I’ve been going to the same grocery store for over 10 years, often having the pleasure of Amy helping me bag my groceries. When I first met Amy, I could tell she was struggling with her job, but she stayed with it. Frequent customers were kind and patient, even if the line backed up a bit.
After about a year, Amy had memorized my name, so she began to greet me by saying “Hi Joe” or “Hi Harry.” We would look at each other and have a good laugh and then Amy, without fail, would tap me on the shoulder and smile and say, “I know your real name is Don.” This routine went on for years.
Recently, I’ve missed seeing Amy. Last week, the store manager told me she turned in her resignation for personal health reasons.
I’ll still go to the same market, but I really miss being called Joe or Harry and having a good laugh.