Aisle Be Damned

Dear Alisa and Gina,

 I was in the grocery store today and I accidentally hit the ankle/foot of a woman in front of me – the aisles were incredibly crowded with re-stocking carts, other people, etc. I didn’t realize I’d hit her at all (by the way her cart was diagonally blocking the only open space) until I heard her say in an incredibly sarcastic voice, “I’m sure you’re really sorry.” I was furious. What a childish comment. I just kept walking. I was angry and embarrassed. What should I have said? – Swervy Shopper

I would have said, in a genuine tone to offset her sarcasm, “I am so, so sorry. If I’d known I had banged into you I wouldn’t have just kept on walking without saying anything. Please forgive me.”  By being authentic, you’ll probably deflate her annoyance. Then the next time you see her, aim for her head. ~ Gina

 In this case, I would say it’s better to avoid saying anything rude if you can’t maintain your calm. Sometimes what you should say is nothing. It’s very hard to maintain composure and a positive outlook when you are in a crowded store with many impatient people. So what I would suggest is to develop a practice for staying present as a way to avoid future situations like this. If you can avoid getting caught in other people’s dramas you can retain your sense of peace. ~ Alisa