Standing on Principle

Some people seem destined to stay their ground.

I learned that the hard way at Edeka, handing over my unsigned credit card. The cashier inspected it, saw the blank signature strip, and immediately informed me — not gently — that she couldn’t verify the signature on the receipt. It wasn’t a small thing. It was a full reprimand. She almost called the manager but decided against it as the line behind me kept growing.

I try to keep a low profile here. One thing I appreciate about Germany is that you aren’t expected to perform friendliness. In the Midwest, there’s a kind of constant pressure to smile — to look pleasant, even when you don't feel it. It can be exhausting. There’s a new Nicole Kidman thriller coming out, and the trailer captures that feeling — the austerity of a smile.

"I didn’t smile, because a smile always seemed rehearsed."
— Fiona Apple

When I do smile here, it’s real. It’s mine.

As for the cashier, I respect her vigilance. Not that I understand it. She was simply doing her job, and next time, I’ll make sure I’m better prepared.