The Age Of Unreason

(My coworker is working on the checkout when a young man comes in to buy some alcohol.)

Coworker: “Can I see your ID, please?”

(The customer hands over his ID. It turns out today is his 18th birthday.)

Coworker: “Ah, happy birthday! First legal drink?”

Customer: “Yes.”

(A manager walks past and overhears.)

Manager: “What time were you born?”

Customer: “Um…”

Manager: “He might not be 18 yet. Don’t authorise the sale.”

(My coworker looks at the manager, thinking she’s joking, but she’s serious.)

Coworker: “Really?”

Manager: “Yes. You know the rules about under aged drinkers!”

(The manager walks off.)

Coworker: “I’m really sorry, but I’m going to have to refuse it because she’s the manager. Come back in a few moments, though, and I’ll put it through for you.”

(He did, and the customer finally got served a few moments later, but on my coworker’s advice he went to make a complaint about the manager straight afterwards!)