Be kind to the teenager behind the counter.
The one ringing up your groceries, handing you your coffee, bagging your meal, or wiping down a table.
She might be sixteen. He might be seventeen. It could be their very first job—or maybe just their second week. They’re learning how to show up on time, greet people with respect, take responsibility, and handle tough moments with a smile.
They’re on their feet for hours, juggling customers, coworkers, and all the pressure that comes with being “at work.” They’re figuring out how to listen, how to work hard, and how to deal with the world as it is—all while still discovering who they are.
So please—be kind to the teen behind the counter.
You don’t know whose child that is.
You don’t know how proud someone feels of them.
You don’t know what kind of courage it took just to walk in and clock on today.
The truth is, they’re doing better than we often give them credit for.
Credit- Leslie Means
