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Carlos Warehouse Chronicle III

To be honest, I didn't plan on another entry until a month from the last one ... but life's funny like that. I had a challenging day today, which was mostly self-inflicted by breaking one of my personal rules.

"To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, and to be late is to be forgotten." ~ Anonymous
I slept craptastically last night, so after running errands, and breakfast, I decided to lie down for a disco nap prior to my work shift. I posted up on time, but right on time, so I was asked not to clock in then get to work instead of the 30 seconds I spent dropping my backpack into the break room. Fair enough, but no leniency was a grip ticky-tack for me.

I volunteered for the Costco Volunteer Reading Program at the local elementary school to tutor a child that needed additional attention to bring his/her reading level up to the class. Today was my 2nd session which was scheduled in the middle of the shift. So I felt that I had to really fight for this to happen correctly and smoothly.

I must admit I was in a terrible mood by the time I showed up at the school. I looked into my rearview mirror, reminded myself of my two simple rules for life, smiled and exited the Sapphire Sled.

My little buddy was so amped to see me! For 45-minutes, I coached up my little buddy. He had mentioned through the school (his grandmother works there, and the point person is another close person of his) that he was happy that someone cared enough to step up for him.

Well, S**T. How can I be in a bad mood, now?

I zoomed back to work (again it was janky schedule) Over the past three months, I've been approached by co-workers AND members to give me a compliment. They said, in essence, that they are glad I'm there in the warehouse, and any day I'm working.

My eyebrows furrowed, I don't understand. I'm just one man. Again, the through-line is that 1) I'm always smiling and 2) in a good mood 3) If that's not possible, or having a bad day, they couldn't tell.

Each time I thank them, but I feel humbled by compliments. I am just myself; whatever that equates to. But today, one member told me while passing through my line.

"Give a smile and you'll get a smile in return - it's just that simple, Carlos."

Stopped me dead in my tracks. HM. I took a survey of my surroundings. There wasn't a ton of people smiling. Except for the person who told me that, and was looking at me.

I suppose I should look in the mirror the next time for an attitude adjustment ASAP.

That's all for now, y'all.

Keep digging until next time,
'los; out

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