> When I am in a grocery store, I know the cashier doesn't give a rats ass about how my day went. I know they simply want me gone as fast as possible with as li

> When I am in a grocery store, I know the cashier doesn't give a rats ass about how my day went. I know they simply want me gone as fast as possible with as little fuss as possible. I've learned to answer "good" and to say "thank you" all in an effort to smooth things over so I can get out of there quickly. I've learned to dwell on these moments and make the experience as pleasant as possible for the other person. I don't chat them up; I focus my attention, bring an earnest sincerity to the fore, and express my gratitude and hope that they'll have a good day. It doesn't take any longer than anyone else, and it's a small gesture that acknowledges their existence as more than just a tool for my shopping habit without getting in their way.