Say Hello, Wave Goodbye

You know that moment when you stroll into a smart shop, and the sales assistant sizes you up like they're deciding whether to offer you a glass of champagne or call in the security squad to shadow you at a "subtle" 12-inch distance?

Whenever I'm manning a stall, I love to greet everyone who drops by. I think it's the polite thing to do. You never know if you're the first person they've spoken to that day or even that week. You might just be their only proof that they exist! Some folks enjoy a good hello, and before you know it, they're sharing life stories, showing off pet pics, or detailing their latest holiday. I adore these exchanges; it's a win-win!

Then there are those who seem to think a simple "hello" is a secret code for "please buy everything I have." I don't mind if folks don't buy anything, but if I say hello, a nod or a wave back would be nice!

I once worked in an office in Leeds over forty years ago, surrounded by middle-aged civil servants. My supervisor was a real ray of sunshine—never responded to my morning greetings. About half an hour later, he'd finally look up and say, "Oh! You're here." Talk about a morale booster!

So, if you ever swing by my stall and I say hello, please know I'm just being friendly. Feel free to share tales of your aches, your holidays, or your furry friends. Just don't feel pressured to buy anything!