Where Life Takes Us

Ava: Let’s say my flight from Seattle to New York was rerouted to Boston due to an unexpected ice storm, and all my initial plans were completely canceled. Let’s say I find myself at the airport with long lines and frustrated passengers. Should I go to the airline and yell at the representatives, or should I call my administrative assistant to help book me a new flight and find me a last-minute hotel? I chose the latter. The next morning, seeking comfort in a warm espresso and freshly baked pastries, I visited a cozy French bakery near my hotel. As I enjoyed my breakfast, let’s say a handsome man approached me and asked if the seat at my table was free. What would be my initial thoughts? Would I assume he wanted to take the seat and sit at another table, or would I think he intended to sit at my table? Despite my initial surprise and mortification, I apparently have inadvertently invited him to sit down.

And let's say he sits at your table. Would you expect him to be unpleasant and rude to the point where you would want to leave and go back to your hotel? Or would you think he might be friendly and engage in pleasant conversation?

Gavin: Normally, I consider myself a kind and well-mannered person. However, these past couple of days have been exceedingly challenging. Recently promoted to VP, this was my first customer visit, and I was struggling to maintain my usual friendliness. When I saw this woman at the bakery, I was immediately captivated by her beauty, even though she appeared disheveled. As she took a bite of her breakfast sandwich, a radiant smile graced her face, and I couldn’t resist being drawn to her. So, I decided to take a seat at her table. Despite my initial frustration with my device, I eventually engaged in conversation with Ava.