every so often, you have an interaction with someone who shifts your perspective, even if just for a few moments. today, a smaller guy came in looking for food. he asked what the sodium and potassium levels are on the meals. they aren’t listed, but i told him i could take his number down and have the kitchen contact him. he thanks me, then leaves. 10 minutes later, he comes back. when he comes back, he tells me he will buy a few meals. as he is looking through the meals and their ingredients, he is facetiming someone. when he comes to the register, he tells me he has kidney failure and there is a certain amount of potassium and sodium he cannot eat beyond. he was facetiming someone in his family to double check the ingredients. i had to step back and think. he had to look up every ingredient to make sure he didn’t go over his limitations. furthermore, he left and came back because his options were limited. when i go out to eat, i say i have to watch what i eat, but reality is there isn’t anything i’m prohibited from eating. my body can process whatever it is i am having a craving for. it made me feel grateful, but also it gave me a perspective to empathize with him. although we eat for enjoyment, the root of our eating is for survival. this guy goes through these obstacles every day, multiple times.
people out here struggling, and to think i was inconvenienced a week ago when kfc got rid of their wedges.
what a shame.
-ratha, 6:12pm, 6.3.20