Dude. The Hell.

Why must public servants be cranky? Why?

I went to the post office today to pick up two packages that I had been expecting. I found a postcard in the mailbox yesterday saying there was no one home when they were dropped off, where to find them, when they'd be available, etc etc.

I waited patiently in line, handed over the postcard, and took the packages. I was told that I didn't need to sign for them. Honestly curious and surprised, I asked: "Then why weren't they left at my door?"

"Well," replied Madame Postal Worker, "We have this whole security and sanctity thing we have to follow."

...

Because I have this deep-rooted nature to assume the best in people, I thought that maybe she had mistaken my question for one incredulous and complaining, instead of honest and curious. So I followed up with, "It's just that I've had other packages left at my door before..."

"Different carriers. We do get days off once in a while."

...

"Have a nice day..."
"Uh-huh."

And, thus dismissed, I left.

What. The. Hell.

The rest of the day was pretty good--packages! books! presents! mostly good people at work! Job not being an annoying pest the entire shift!--but that worker's inner insistence that I was being rude enough to deserve such an attitude has been prickling at me the rest of the day.

And this is why I try to give people the benefit of the doubt, not be cranky at them, and even smile or compliment them--because sometimes the smallest interaction can affect someone's entire day.

Grrr...