The Cheat Meal

Preface:
As I write this, I have lost forty-eight pounds. Lesa and I reward ourselves each week with a cheat meal. We usually enjoy this meal on Friday during date night and a movie. Last Friday we chose deep dish pizza and wings for our cheat meal. This is what happened…

Act I:
When we arrived at the restaurant I took my place in a long line of patrons to place my order. I immediately recognized the young lady behind the counter taking orders. She had worked here for a long time and greeted each customer with the same energetic attitude and welcoming smile. I also noticed that many of the customers did not return her smile or even make eye contact. This did not stop her. She never failed to give each person her best. This had been my experience on all of my prior visits.

When it was my turn, I placed my order and thanked her for having such a good attitude. I also asked how many people return the favor. She replied. “hardly any at all.” I deliberately put tip money in the cup on the counter and told her what is was for. She thanked me and told me my order would be ready in fifteen minutes.

Act II:
Lesa and I visited the local Target for a few minutes while the food was being prepared. When we returned I took my place in line. The lady in line in front of me paid for her order and gathered herself to leave. Meanwhile, our optimistic order taker smiles at me and says. “Mr. Marrs, your order is ready. I will be right back.” The lady preparing to leave looks at me surprised and says, “How did she remember your name? Did she take a picture with her Iphone?” I laughed and said, “No, I complimented her on her great attitude.” She left with a strange look on her face.

Act III:
Lesa and I enjoyed a quiet evening at home with pizza and an old Robert Redford movie, Jeremiah Johnson.

Can you name all the human relationship principles in this story?

Have a great week!

Pierce

P.S.: Dale Carnegie Quotes of the week:

– Act enthusiastic and you will be enthusiastic.

– Don’t be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one it makes you that much stronger. If you do the little jobs well, the big ones will tend to take care of themselves.

– Happiness doesn’t depend on any external conditions, it is governed by our mental attitude.