Just A Litle Bit

My youngest is still in school and working a good amount at a clothing store called The Loft. She was at work on Saturday night when she noticed a middle aged man walking around the store. He approached her and  quietly asked if he could speak to her. She said “Sure” and the gent proceeded to tell her that another woman’s clothing store there at the outlet mall had denied him the ability to try on some clothing. He informed her that he is transgender would like to try a few things on. She noticed he was nervous, his hands were shaking. She hesitated for a second, then went to check who was working the dressing room, She guided the man over and informed her coworker, “My friend here would like to try on these pieces.” She wanted to respect how he presents but was unsure of the proper pronoun. She took him to a dressing room and let him know that she and her coworkers were there to get other sizes if needed. He thanked her and then showed her a picture of himself in full make up. It was brave and, I am sure, not easy. She smiled and let him know he looked nice.

She then went to inform the manager on duty so that she was aware. One of her coworkers did not like the situation overly much and spoke loudly enough for my girl to over hear, so my girl got on her headset and stated that someone at the front desk needs to lower their voice.

When the customer made his purchases, the big mouthed girl made sure he knew about a problem they had had with a peeping Tom, as if that had any relation to him.....duh. He made a point of returning and thanking my girl for her help.

I’m super proud of her. She showed him the respect he deserved in what could have been an awkward situation. I am disappointed, however, with a national chain that has not bothered addressing this possibility and the proper way all the employees should handle it, so that nobody there makes the unfortunate mistake the other company did.

A little respect goes a long way.