C'est Une Event Sociologique

I went to get gas for the car. Not unexpectedly, all the working stations are very busy, because all the small trucks are filling-up and getting snacks and coffee.

My pump (number 5) was out of paper and I really wanted a receipt. The pump said go inside and get one from the cashier.

Inside the mini-mart part of the station, there was a line of carpenters and other real people, getting their coffee, donuts, newspapers, and sandwiches. So I joined the line and started to soak in the ambience. Just like any other morning at a 7-11, except more people.

As the line wound up to the cashier, she asked me..." can I help you"

"Yes, I'm at pump number 5 and would like to have a receipt."

"No problem. In the future, you can just come right up to the front and ask for it "

"Hmm. If I jumped line back in Massachusetts, I'd have a fight on my hands..."

"Oh no. It's OK. It was our fault that our pump ran out of paper."

( from the next man in line ) ..."Here in the south, we have a slower pace. We're not in a hurry. Besides, we all have to look out for each other"