Does anyone truly understand the concept of listening? How about the idea of “patience and understanding?” This past month at work has tested my patience, listening skills, but mostly the idea of compassion and understanding – even when some people don’t seem to deserve those privileges.
Here are some of the examples of the complaints I specifically recall from the past month:
“Well, my roommates received the correct front door key. How did this even happen? How did you all give me the wrong key? I mean, it’s just absurd!”
-Yes, it is quite unbelievable that we, humans, might make such a grave error as to hand you the wrong key out of the THOUSANDS we deal with on a daily basis. Our sincerest apologies, madame.
“Why do you all even change the locks? This is so inconvenient.”
-Well, sir…we changed your daughter’s lock so that the previous occupants could not re-enter the premises if they kept their keys, which many of our residents do. It’s called “covering all of the bases..” and avoiding a huge lawsuit…which you would have most definitely filed should a drunk college student enter your daughter’s locked bedroom late one night.
“My son did not understand what he was signing when he signed his lease. He needs to move in much earlier than the 22nd.”
-Ma’am? Are you implying that your 26 year-old son, a MEDICAL STUDENT, cannot comprehend basic English? The lease is very clear. No, he cannot move in early. But you might want to consider enrolling him in some kind of basic reading comprehension class if he cannot read a lease agreement. Oh, and maybe a communications class, as he is a grown man and should be talking to me right now. Not you. Thanks.
“I did not know I was supposed to move out. You cannot remove my items from my room. I’ll sue you.”
-Unfortunately, much like your friend above, you were very aware that the end of your lease was in August. See the aforementioned “reading comprehension course” recommendation. Oh, and check your email. We sent one of those as well.
…All of this is real life. And that’s not nearly the end of the complaints – just my personal favorites.
Sorry to be a negative nancy, y’all. I feel much better after that rant, however. I hope you all can get a little chuckle at some of the common complaints I received as I worked EVERY DAY FOR THE PAST MONTH. Yes, you read that right. And no, it’s not illegal. I checked.
Anyway, I miss Tanzania so much. I still dream about my precious babies and amazing friends I made in June. I cannot wait to be back. I have to admit I almost showed some of these complainers some of the pictures from my trip. I never want to seem self-righteous or like a martyr. HOWEVER, I just wish everyone had an opportunity to wander out into the world. My, what a change in perspective people might have. Keys and carpet aren’t so important compared to health issues, lack of education, and homeless prevalence.
Lala Salama.
haliewanders 