The Day The World Slipped of Its Axis

Went to Home Depot. Expected the usual. Being ignored. Asking for help and being given bad information. Not being able to find someone to help when I needed it. A checkout line with two people that somehow takes 45 minutes. You know, the usual "help" they offer.

In no way did they meet my expectations. They found what I needed. Cheerfully helped me. Smiled at me. Asked how I was doing. Downright pleasant! Clearly, the Earth slipped of its axis. Be interesting to see how other businesses handle this present economic situation. Will they become more service-oriented? Will store clerks actually serve with a smile? Will businesses fight to compete by being friendly? Or, was today just an aberration? This crusty old pirate sure hopes that Home Depot's treatment doesn't catch on. Otherwise, only the best customer-care companies will survive. Imagine what would happen then. All of the companies that compete on prices with the same products will be out of business. And you know what that means. Those very few companies left will raise prices due to lack of competition and suddenly a gallon of milk will cost $14.99.

On the flip side, then new companies will enter the market. Prices will drop. Service will go right back in the toilet. New strip centers will spring up. In other words, we will be right back where we are now.

My guess: Today was merely an aberration. Tomorrow will bring the same miserable shopping experience we are used to.