Warnakulasuriya Patabendige Ushantha Joseph Chaminda Vaas Can Relate

My name has been changed for this story, but it’s similar to what I have written. I am at the checkout and a customer is scrutinizing my name tag.

Customer: “Your name is WGD?”

Me: “Oh, that’s what I like everyone to call me. It’s easier, plus it fits on the name tag!”

Customer: “It’s unprofessional to go by a nickname in the workplace. I wouldn’t hire you if you went by some silly, hip nickname.”

As I have pen and paper, I start writing.

Customer: “What are you doing? I have groceries to scan!”

I show her my full written name.

Me: “Show me a name tag that can legibly fit Wijeesundara Goonatilake Dharmagunawardhana, and I’ll show you a cashier who will have back pain by the end of the day.”

The customer is silent for a moment, and I continue scanning. After she’s paid and is walking away:

Customer: “Your parents should have just called you John or something!”