Thoughts

Is there another commonly used phrase that can leave you in as many awkward situations as "you too"?

Often times it is expectation of a comment to which we are trained that "you too" is proper and polite. You end a conversation with someone (as I just did) and you bank on the fact that the next thing out of their mouth will be something to the effect of "have a nice day" as so many phone calls with clients and vendors do. You are then thrown for a loop as this person throws a curve.

"Thank you for your time," she said.
"You too," I, like a jackass, reply as we both move to replace our phone handsets in their cradle.

Sure the call is over, yet the feeling remains. It is not one of embarrassment; I will never speak to this particular vendor again and even if I did, so what? The feeling is one of defeat. No matter how many times it happens, we never guard against it.

My particular favorite takes us to the airport. Maybe you are checking in for your flight or checking your luggage, perhaps you are buying a magazine or a pre-flight snack. The details surrounding the situation are irrelevant, what is important is the conversation. They help you with your reservation or facilitate your purchase and then it happens.

"Have a nice flight."
"You too."

Are you serious? This airport/airline employee is clearly not about to board a plane. You, by your presence in the building alone, have stamped on your forehead that you are travelling. They are trying to be a well trained, polite employee and ensure to wish you a safe voyage. Why can we not accept this in an intelligent manner?

You can tell me that you have never done this, but we both know it's not true. Your secret, though, is safe with me.

Someday. Someday...I will get it right. At least that is what I tell myself.