An unfair charge showed up on my credit card bill. My indignation gained momentum even as I hunted for the number to call and complain. The woman who answered was cordial enough. But my ire was up and I had been rehearsing a tirade for several minutes. 

 

"Let me check with my supervisor." Then I was on hold. 

 

How dare she. This was a diversionary tactic, and she was probably laughing to her office mate about another stupid customer. Meanwhile, my monologue about lousy treatment and the string of snarky comments was growing.

 

"Sorry to keep you waiting. The charges have been taken off your bill. Is there anything else I can do for you today?" She sounded as chipper as if I had just offered her a puppy.

 

"Er, no. I mean, thank you," I stammered. 

 

"Have a wonderful day!" Then she was off to field another call. 

 

The sharp contrast between my words, albeit undelivered, and hers was embarrassing. I was berating her at the exact same time that she was helping me. Besides, why was I bent on blaming her for something that she had precisely zero responsibility for? I looked out the window and for the first time noticed that it was indeed a lovely morning. Funny how I had missed that. 

 

The next day, I noticed that somehow my social media account had sent annoying messages to a few friends. I quickly wrote to apologize. One woman wrote back. 

 

"I didn't think you sent it. So I ignored it."  

 

How about that. She gave me the benefit of the doubt. How generous. 

 

I almost wished I would get another charge on my bill, so I could call and be appreciative. It wouldn't kill me. But the chances of it being the same rep were minuscule. I guess I will just have to start being nice more often in the hopes of running into her again.