“A store assistant brought my wife to tears by being rude when she simply asked about a job opening. Hearing what happened, I knew I had to do something to support my wife and make sure the assistant reconsidered how she treats others.
This is a story about standing up for the ones you love. My name is Thomas, and my wife, Emma, has always had an eye for fashion. Her wardrobe is a testament to her impeccable taste—she really knows her stuff when it comes to the latest trends!
In fact, she’s the one who often picks out my clothes. Not because it’s her job, but because she enjoys it. And honestly, I always look great, so I’m not complaining!
Emma has tried different jobs over the years—receptionist, nurse (though that was short-lived), and even dabbled in art. But something was always missing. Recently, she decided to turn her passion for fashion into a career and began looking for a job in retail, thinking it would be a perfect fit.
One day, she came home upset and told me what had happened. Emma had noticed a famous lingerie store with a ‘Now Hiring’ sign. Excited, she went in to inquire, but her excitement quickly turned to disappointment. When she approached the sales assistant, the woman barely acknowledged her. Emma, still hopeful, asked about the job application process, but the assistant rudely dismissed her.
Emma was heartbroken. She came home in tears, devastated by the unkind remark. It was hard to see her so upset.
I held her close and tried to comfort her. ‘Don’t let her words get to you, love. You’re talented and have so much to offer.’ But Emma couldn’t understand why the assistant had been so harsh. ‘I just wanted to apply for a job. I didn’t deserve that,’ she said.
Seeing her so dejected made me determined to support her. No one should make Emma feel this way! I decided it was time to boost her confidence and remind her of her worth.
Over the next few days, I reached out to my friend Mike, who works in the fashion industry, and he was more than willing to help. ‘That’s really unfortunate. Let’s do something to show her how talented Emma is,’ Mike said.
A few days later, we put our plan into action. Dressed sharply with Emma’s help, I visited the lingerie store, ensuring the same assistant was working that day. I pretended to browse, waiting for the right moment. When the store was less busy, I approached her with a friendly smile.
‘Hello, I’m looking to buy something special for my wife. Could you help me pick out a few things?’ I asked. The assistant’s demeanor changed instantly, seeing a potential big sale. She became attentive and started showing me various items.
As she showed me more pieces, I kept her engaged with small talk. ‘So, how long have you been working here?’ I inquired.
‘About six months,’ she replied. ‘It’s a great job if you have the right look for it.’ I nodded, pretending to be interested.
After about thirty minutes, I told her I needed to step outside to call my wife for her opinion on one of the items. Instead, I called Mike, who arrived quickly to help with the plan. We walked back into the store together, and Mike introduced himself as someone working in the fashion industry.
He complimented the store, saying it was a great place to find fresh talent. ‘I’ve been looking for someone with a unique look and a great personality. Do you think you might have anyone like that here?’
The assistant’s eyes lit up with excitement. ‘Oh, really? Well, I’ve been told I have a great look for this sort of thing,’ she said, thinking this was her big break. But Mike gently shook his head.
‘I’m sorry, but I don’t think you quite fit what we’re looking for,’ he replied. ‘We’re looking for someone with a special quality that really stands out.’
Before she could respond, Mike turned to me. ‘What about you?’ he asked. ‘You have an interesting look. Have you ever considered modeling?’ The assistant was completely taken aback.
I smiled and replied, ‘No, but I do know someone who would be perfect—my wife, Emma. She’s talented, confident, and truly beautiful inside and out.’
Mike nodded enthusiastically. ‘I’d love to meet her. Let’s set up an interview.’ I turned to the assistant and said, ‘Maybe next time, you’ll think twice before judging someone based on appearances.’
Emma later met with Mike, and although she didn’t pursue modeling, the experience gave her a much-needed confidence boost.
When she came back from the meeting, I asked, ‘How did it go?’
‘It was amazing! Mike was so kind and professional,’ she said, glowing with happiness. ‘He said I had real potential.’
‘I told you, darling! You have everything it takes,’ I replied, hugging her tightly.
A week later, we were back at the shopping center. This time, Emma walked with newfound confidence. As we passed by the lingerie store, I couldn’t help but glance inside. The sales assistant was there, still looking a bit taken aback from our last encounter.
‘Want to go in and browse?’ I teased Emma. She laughed, shaking her head. ‘I’ve had enough of that store for a lifetime!’ We continued walking, hand in hand, knowing that the best way to handle a situation like this is to lift up the ones you love and help them see their true worth.
So, that’s our story. Sometimes, the best way to respond to unkindness is by building up the confidence of the people who matter most to you.”
