the happy cashier - opening to joy

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Hear the discussion of this chapter free on YouTube: I Am A Volunteer

There are volunteers and others. I am a volunteer. Yesterday, I began reframing my dissatisfaction about my job in a new way. I’m a volunteer. I’m in a regrowth period of my life. I don’t get paid much, I do get benefits and a discount on healthy food. I am learning the value of every hour I work, and more importantly, every hour I am not at work.

This Happy Cashier writing may be a coping mechanism for dealing with a shitty job, shitty management, and a corporate machine that’s in the business of distributing organic groceries. I thought I was writing about my mindfulness. What I’m really doing is chanting my mantra of inclusiveness and becoming mindful in the process. I am doing the work of gratitude and service. I am not feeling the love at this moment for my job. But, and this is a big one, but…

I enjoy the work. I love helping others. I appreciate the fit and health-conscious customers. I am open to sharing stories and epiphanies about various vanilla ice creams. Yes. This is my tribe. Even the staff, for the most part, are like-minded. Most of my colleages are either fresh out of high school or neurodivergent. Both are fine. And I appreciate the community of our team, doing what it takes, helping each other, chatting our way through the dull days.

The more I lean into my job, the more I’m aware of how stable and creative I have been. A steady job with little or no angst is good. Sure, the trouble with management is an ongoing situation, but…

If I reframe my job as volunteering, I can appreciate the benefit I am providing to others. I light up people’s day. I give joy. I am delighted by hearing your story. What you share with me, often, is something you are passionate about. It could be kimichi. Sushi. I don’t imbibe, but I am attentive and seeking to understand your perspective and approach.

Life is a journey we are all on. I am in a backwater eddy, biding my time. In this space, however, I am volunteering to show up for you, check out your groceries, and if you like, share some joy.

In the world of humans, I prefer volunteers, people who want to help others for little or no financial benefit. I am a volunteer.

I am here for you. I am here for the benefits. I am only here for a limited time. Onward through the mist.

See you in the checkout line today, though I’d rather be writing.