We’ve all been there. Trapped in an elevator, silently willing the doors to close faster. But me? I’m usually the one patiently waiting, a picture of politeness, as someone scrambles towards the closing doors. “Hold the elevator!” they shout breathlessly. And like a chump, I smile and oblige.
The Day My Elevator Etiquette Backfired
This all changed last Tuesday, thanks to an encounter that can only be described as “peak awkward.” Picture this:
I’m in my office building’s elevator, heading to a meeting on the 10th floor. It’s just me and my reflection, momentarily enjoying the peace and quiet. The doors begin their slow, graceful close when suddenly… BAM! A hand shoots through the shrinking gap, stopping the doors in their tracks. Relief floods over the mystery person’s face as they squeeze through.
“Thank goodness!” the newcomer exclaims, slightly out of breath. I offer a polite smile, secretly hoping they’re going to the 9th or 11th floor. No such luck.
This is where things take a turn for the weird. The person is carrying not one, not two, but THREE enormous gift baskets. We’re talking overflowing-with-goodies, decorated-within-an-inch-of-their-lives kind of baskets.