As a cashier for over eight years, I see all kinds of people—some kind, some selfish. One regular stood out: Veronica, a rich woman who treated her maid, Alma, horribly every Sunday. Alma, quiet and clearly from a poorer background, endured Veronica’s insults and control, barely speaking English so Veronica could say anything without consequences.
One day, I tried to help Alma sign up for our discount program, but Veronica refused, mocking the idea and belittling Alma. When Veronica wanted to register for the discount herself, I told her the system was down, forcing her to pay full price—just like Alma always did.
Veronica was furious but powerless. Later, she wrongly accused a bystander of being a manager and demanded I be fired. The bystander wasn’t a manager, and Veronica left humiliated, with Alma quietly thanking me afterward.
Carlos, another staffer who speaks Spanish, later shared Alma’s side and Veronica’s failed attempts to get me fired. It was a rare win—standing up for dignity against entitlement.