She’ll Be Taking Her Business Even Further South

My husband is in the military, so we relocate quite often. I work for a retailer that understands and agrees that I can transfer to the next store when we have to move. Our first move is from a very northern state to a very southern state. I’ve lived in the north my entire life and have a “northern accent.” When I get to my new store, my accent is something of a novelty to most people. I am assigned to greet people at the door and ask what people are shopping for in order to expedite their trip.

Me: “Hi, welcome to [Store].”

Customer: *Wide-eyed* “What did you say?”

I repeat myself, slower.

Customer: “Where are you from?”

Me: “I’m from [Northern State]; I just moved here. Can I help you find anything today?”

Customer: *Looking me over* “How will you know where it is?”

Me: “I’m familiar with the store, ma’am; they’re all laid out the same.”

Customer: “Hmm. Where are you from?”

Me: “[Northern State].”

Customer: “Where?” 

Me: “Um… why?”

Customer: “Why not?”

I’m getting a little annoyed but I don’t want to be unprofessional.

Me: “It’s a small place, only about 1000 people.”

Customer: *Sneers* “You’re probably a dumba** Democrat. Aren’t you?”

Me: *Shrugs* “I’m an employee, ma’am. Can I help you with anything today?”

Customer: “No. I’ll be taking my business elsewhere.”

She left immediately.