Hubby and I are firm believers that life is too short to be miserable, though obviously everyone is entitled to an off day and there are certainly circumstances when you can’t be laughing all the time.
Both of us have worked with the general public and agree that they can be a miserable bunch, but having witnessed several customers in supermarket queues not passing so much as the time of day with the operator processing their shopping, we make a point of engaging them in conversation and leaving them with a smile. This usually has the wonderful knock on effect on those behind us in the queue who do the same, so for a few minutes, it brightens everyone’s day. What’s more, it’s free and the Tax Man can’t touch it.
Hubby had an ENT appointment earlier this week, and due to the new car registration number system, had to log in at reception to get his disabled discounted parking fee.
The receptionist had a face as long as next week, looked thoroughly pissed off with all and sundry and obviously wanted to be anywhere other than behind the glass at her desk.
We greeted her with a cheerful ‘Hello Nice Lady!’
to which she replied with a resigned ‘Good morning. How can I help you?’
We asked her how her day was going, and she seemed pleasantly surprised that someone should care enough to ask.
Their system isn’t completely installed yet, so Hubby was given a voucher to process when he came out of his appointment to get the necessary discount.
We asked if we would have to register every time, and she told us that when everything was completely up and running, it would be automatic as our registration number would be on their database.
With a smile and thank you, Hubby went on to his appointment and I went back to the car to stay with Maggie.
If we got a point for each smile, we scored at least half a dozen, but hit the jackpot with an almighty genuine laugh that lit up her entire face as well as her spirits.
He’s got the all clear by the way, so that’s another thing out of the way.
pensitivity101 
Lovely, I too like to smile at people when we go for our walk or at other times. Some respond and some look baffled. It is nice to see people smile back. Regards
Us too. It puts a spring in your step when you get a positive response.
My dentist (and a couple of surgeons) have had a laugh at greetings. They usually get in first with “Good Morning Mr. Chappell. How are you today?” I reply “Fine thanks but, what’s more important is how are you today?” They respond the expected “Well I am very well thank you, but why am I more important than you?” …. and they get the inevitable logic ” You’re the one with all the sharp tools. If you’re having a bad day, then I am leaving right now!” 🙂
I’ve already written about the time I bit my dentist. It was a accident, honest!
🙂
That is why I use my laugh a little It is a good day when you can laugh at things , including onesself.
Hi Michelle. I know exactly what you mean.
I laugh at myself, and have done for years, but before it was to beat anyone laughing AT me first. Now it’s because I’m just funny or I’ve done something totally daft!
Ha ha
Good news all round Di, Hubby must be feeling extra chipper as well.
One more thing out of the way. We’re getting there!
I LOVED this post! It has to be my most favourite post of yours to date. It left me smiling … again! 🙂
I’m glad! 🙂