This Customer Is A Godsend

(I’m at a convenience store. When I get to the register, I note the cashier’s name tag says ‘Saraswati.’ I’m slightly confused, because I understand the name’s history, but the cashier doesn’t appear to be of Indian ethnicity. Nonetheless…)

Me: “Hello, Goddess.”

Cashier: *stops scanning items and looks at me haltingly* “Why did you call me ‘Goddess’?”

Me: “Well, your nametag… Isn’t that the name of a Hindu Goddess?”

Cashier: “You’re the ONLY person who’s ever known that!”

Me: “Heh. It does confuse me a little. You don’t really look Indian. One of your parents..?”

Cashier: “No. I’m not Hindu. My parents just named me after the Goddess for some reason. I’m still just baffled. Lots of people have asked about my unusual name, but you’re the only one who’s ever known about it without an explanation!”

Me: “I’m flattered. Take care, Goddess.”

Cashier: “You, too!”