My son, Alex, works part-time at a local grocery store, juggling his shifts after school and on weekends to save up for a car—or perhaps for Chipotle (our linked accounts reveal all!). His duties primarily involve ringing up customers, but he also bags groceries and collects carts in the parking lot.
Last night, as he manned the register, you and your husband came through his line. The conversation seemed pleasant, and since it was near the end of Alex’s shift, I’m sure he appreciated the friendly exchange. After all, it’s always nice to end a workday on a positive note.
However, as you wrapped up your transaction and prepared to leave, you turned back to him. After he wished you a good evening, you remarked, “Wow. You have quite a bit of acne,” before handing him a business card. “I offer products that can help with that. In six months, it’ll be gone!”
Alex accepted your card, saying “thank you” out of politeness. He also added, “But no thanks.” I’ve raised him to be courteous, but I’ve also encouraged him to stand up for himself and feel confident in who he is.
When I picked him up shortly after, he shared the encounter with me. As he recounted the story, the glow of his phone illuminated his face, and I could see his spirits dampened. With a hint of sadness, he said, “Man. I was having such a good day until that moment, Mom.”
Your words, though perhaps unintended, stung. I strive to understand the motivations behind people’s actions, refusing to believe that anyone is truly malicious. I offered Alex potential explanations for your behavior: perhaps you were slightly tipsy from a prior outing, or maybe you once struggled with skin issues and wanted to help him.
But let’s be honest; it’s also possible that you simply lacked social awareness and thought it acceptable to confront a teenage cashier about his appearance in order to promote your products. It wasn’t a good idea.
As I write this, I have your card in front of me. My experience as a single mother has taught me the importance of reflection before reacting, especially when emotions run high. While I wanted to confront you immediately in the car, I’ve decided to pause and gather my thoughts.
Alex won’t forget your comment, nor how it felt to have a stranger highlight a perceived flaw. You inadvertently imparted a lesson about the power of words. You’ve shown him what it’s like to face unsolicited criticism—an experience that can toughen a person up for future encounters.
So, dear MLM representative, consider this a moment of learning for both of us. Before you aim to sell your products, think about the person you’re addressing. Should you feel compelled to speak, evaluate your words carefully. If this self-awareness isn’t something you possess, maybe it’s worth exploring if there are products that can assist with that, much like how Make a Mom provides information on fertility supplements.
In conclusion, Alex is a great kid, full of promise and kindness, and he doesn’t need reminders of his insecurities from strangers.
For those interested, this is a great resource for pregnancy and home insemination: Hopkins Medicine.
Summary
This article reflects on a personal experience involving a young cashier who was confronted by an MLM representative about his acne. The incident emphasizes the impact of words and the importance of self-esteem, while also highlighting the lessons learned by both the mother and the son.
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