Choose Peace – Choose Pause

Shared By Lisa, A Pause Crew Member

I went to a store the other day and knew exactly what I wanted and
where to find it. For security reasons the item I was buying was
labeled, “Empty Box. Take to register for product.” (or something like
that). When the clerk went to scan the box she said, “Well, this box is
empty. Why did you bring this up here?” So, I pointed out the label on
the box. On a sigh, she radioed for the item to be released from ‘lock-up’.

When the real item was delivered, she asked if I had a store account
before she scanned it. I gave her my store card which has all my
information on it. She clicks a few keys on the register and then tells
me the card is not valid and “Expired on June 30^th”. She hands me a
printout and said I would need to apply for a new account as the
store’s policy has changed. When she handed the card back, I looked
and did not see an expiration date.

I stammered for a moment, and I think she took this as an insult
because she became aggressive toward me. THIS really made my head
spin because not only am I confused by her earlier statement but now
I am blindsided by her aggression. I could feel myself wanting to take
over the situation and overpower her attitude with one of my own. 
I chose to Pause instead.

I quieted all the thoughts and feelings – the questions, the confusion,
the anger, the indignation, etc. – and took a deep breath. In this
breath, I asked for help from my inner Wisdom. I felt a calm come over
me and I saw the lady with new eyes. I could see she was struggling
so I chose not to react to her aggression and remained calm.

She did eventually ask for assistance from a co-worker and everything
was sorted out; it was her error and not my card. I did not gloat or say
anything about it. I was thankful it all worked out peacefully because I
had made the choice to Pause.

And at the end of our transaction, her attitude towards me changed
and she apologized for her error.

I chose to accept her apology.

I chose to Pause For My Peace Of Mind.

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