Working as a cashier, I often see both the best and worst in people. One regular shopper, Veronica, stood out for her blatant mistreatment of her maid, Alma. Every Sunday, Veronica would loudly belittle Alma in front of other customers, ordering her around and mocking her appearance and abilities. Alma, always quiet and timid, would push the cart in worn-out clothes and try her best to avoid drawing attention, despite her boss’s constant public scolding.
One afternoon, Alma approached my register with a few personal items. I offered to help her sign up for the store’s discount program, but Veronica rudely refused, insisting that Alma “pay full price” and even berating her for being poor. However, when Veronica later tried to register for her own discount to save on her expensive groceries, I calmly informed her that the system was “temporarily offline.” She had no choice but to pay full price—just like Alma.
As Veronica stormed away, customers in line quietly cheered the small act of justice. In an attempt to complain, Veronica mistakenly approached another shopper, thinking he was the manager, only to embarrass herself further. Meanwhile, Alma gave me a quiet “thank you” before following her boss out the door.
Later, a coworker told me that Alma had shared the story, grateful someone had finally stood up for her. That day, I was reminded that small acts of kindness—and fairness—can go a long way for those who often go unheard.