Today, We Are All From Toronto

(The parking lot is full at a popular beach and the area is residential, so I have the job of turning cars away.)

Me: “I’m sorry, sir, but the lot is full and you’re blocking traffic so you’ll have to move your car.”

Customer: “But we are from Toronto!”

Me: “Um… I’m glad you drove all this way, but the lot is full. Maybe you can get some lunch and check back in a half-hour?”

Customer: “But we are from Toronto.”

Me: “I know. I’m sorry, but there’s nothing I can do. I have to keep this road clear.”

Customer: “Have you ever been to Toronto?”

Me: “No. But please, sir, you have to move. Perhaps you can drop your family off and rejoin them later when we have spaces.”

Customer: *angrily* “We are going back to Toronto!”