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.”