(I’m 26 but quite petite, so I often get mistaken for being a lot younger. I’m also married and seven months pregnant. I’m at a higher end department store trying on dresses. I’m just leaving the changing room with a very helpful salesgirl. The next person goes in leaving a customer and her teen daughter next in line.)
Customer: *in a stage whisper* “See! That’s why you keep your legs closed at school. So you don’t end up buying your prom dress looking like that”
(Her daughter goes red as several other customers stare in disbelief.)
Daughter: “For God’s sake, mum! Shut up!”
Me:”Oh, no, your mum’s right. That’s exactly what my mum told me. When I was 16. 10 years ago:’
(The customer reddens as her daughter glares at her.)
Me: “So what I did was, I studied hard at school, went to university, and got a degree. I started my own business, bought a car, and then a house. I met my partner, dated for a couple of years, then got married. Now that we’re financially comfortable we’re having a baby. I’m not saying that’s for everyone but you don’t want to wake up one day to find you’re 50, miserable, bigoted, and rude.”
Customer: *very embarrassed by everyone’s stares* “I’m only 42!”
Me: “I’m sure that’s what your daughter will remember about today.”
