A Lesson For All

Before the Coronavirus, in the not so distant past, people went out to eat. They packed out bars, restaurants, coffee shops, concerts, and sports arenas. Even more so, at times more than others, they packed out movie theaters.

As a moviegoer, I have never been really much of a complainer. As long as the movie was playing and the sound and air conditioning were on, I would be perfectly intent with two hours of pure escapism. Yet, it was not until I began working at a movie theater that I realized just how much people can complain about their own moviegoing experience.

“My popcorn is too buttery. My popcorn does not have butter. Your service is poor and this theater needs more staff.”

Those would be some of the basic complaints you could hear on a day to day basis. There would also be random and completely ridiculous complaints. Yet, for the sake of time, I am not going to get into those.

One of the most ridiculous and negative interactions I ever had with guests came completely out of nowhere for me. I was having a normal day at the podium, doing my normal duties, tearing tickets, smiling, and adhering to my love of structured routines.

Then an elderly couple came up to the podium, ready and intent on seeing their movie. As they drew near, I said, “Welcome.” Yet, as they drew closer I saw they were carrying two coffees from Bindle Coffee, a local and more expensive coffee shop in Fort Collins, CO.

Reluctantly, fearing the worst, I said, “I’m sorry, but due to our policy, we do not allow outside food or drinks. However, we do allow you to finish them in our lobby.” To the best of my ability, I tried to be as courteous and professional as possible.

That did not sit well with them.

“What do you mean we can’t bring our coffee in? We paid good money to see this film. Guess we’ll go get a refund then.”

As they walked away, the husband said quite audibly, “That guy is such a freak.”

I was able to finish the remainder of my shift without showing any type of reaction to his words. Yet, as soon as he was out of sight, I wanted to run to the utility closet, lock the door, scream and throw stuff around. “Theaters have NEVER let in outside food anywhere!” I ranted to myself. Yet, that was not the root of my anguish. I was really angry because he was not the first person to say something cruel about me.

From the time I was five years old until now, people have called me many different cruel names. When I got diagnosed with schizophrenia, my voices proceeded to call me even more hurtful names. While their words still hurt, I have known the pain associated with verbal abuse and I have grown to discover more and more what it means to ignore such people, even if they continue to be mean.

Yet, in our world today, due to Coronavirus, there is a special group of people who may or may not be as associated with verbal bullying. These are the “essential workers”: doctors, nurses, fast food workers, grocery clerks, truck drivers. These are the people who are helping us stay healthy, fed, and sane during these trying times. For such a long time, these people have especially not been as valued as others.

These people are sacrificing time with their families, putting their own health and sanity on the line for us. Now more than ever, these are people who need to hear positive words, things to help them through their long days and nights.

“Thank you for doing what you do.”

“How can I pray for you?”

“You’re awesome.”

“Jesus loves you.”

During Coronavirus and beyond, one day when everything perhaps becomes more normal, the underappreciated “essential workers” should continue to be appreciated.
Also, whether or not you are employed, an “essential worker” or not, from this moment forward we should love and appreciate everyone, regardless of our differences. Instead of making assumptions about people, we should build each other up, not tear each other down. This is what Jesus would do.

If anything changes because of this pandemic, it is my prayer that people will no longer base self-worth on what you look like, what you can do, or what you own. It is my prayer that we all will see ourselves as sons and daughters of God who are in desperate need of a Savior.

In conclusion, friends, be mindful of the things you say daily to your family, friends, and everyone around you.  It really does matter.

Proverbs 15:1 NIV
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Thank you for reading. Stay safe. I love you all.

Jacob McGowen