The other day I realized how truly special some of the laborers in the desert really are . . . This came about when I was quickly getting groceries. I thought, 'I hope Vanessa is working today.' Vanessa, is a cashier at Albertson's (Sunrise & Vista Chino). I don't personally know her and it's just been recently that I learned her last name is 'Brown.' It seems like she has been at this store forever. Her presence never goes unnoticed by me and I know it doesn't go unnoticed by a lot of other patrons. A lot of us seek out her line to go through. I often think that her amazing kindness must double her customer work load. . . I know I have chosen to wait in her line . . . I always leave with a smile because her type of courtesy is filled with sensitivity and specialness.
You see, Vanessa is a rare gem I hope Albertson's realize they have . . . She always greets her customers with that amazing smile and she works diligently on their behalf. She makes sure you get every benefit available to you (that really counts with me). But most of all, she is so sincere and gentle with people who are having a difficult time, whether it be their slowness, or the fact that they are pilfering through their purse for change. She is quick to say . . . "that's ok, just take your time." That's not to infer that her line is slow, because she really moves the items along and packages things with unbelievable attentiveness (that is, when she doesn't have someone to bag for her). She is quick, but she is extremely sensitive to the elderly and those who sometimes can't get it together when they're checking out. I have also watch her handle a person who's 'cranky' and appeared to have an oppositional disorder to life. She remained kind, true to her good nature toward others . . . On three occasions (at least), I have seen Vanessa pull money out her own pocket to complete a transaction because someone didn't have enough. It wasn't a lot, but she quickly ended the embarrassment of the situation without bringing attention to it by quickly saying "we're ok here, you have a nice day." It is her blend of professionalism and appropriate communications that makes her extraordinary.
In a fast pace, highly stressed world . . . it's people like Vanessa that make me smile. Rare gems with amazing kindness and sensitivity toward others. As a blogger, I am quick to address issues . . . But today, it just felt right to point out that it is special people here in the desert that makes it a great place to live.
Thank you for the exposing goodness and specialities in others in the small but big places.
Aloha and Best,
Myles Saulibio