Chapter 1: The Shared Human Experience

Having traveled extensively, I have come to understand that what unites us far outweighs what divides us. No matter our differences in race, religion, or beliefs, the universal desire for joy and laughter is evident across cultures. This truth has been reinforced through my experiences around the globe, and I remain steadfast in my views despite the negative narratives often portrayed by society, politics, or social media.

However, I am not oblivious to the darker aspects of our world, such as hatred, fear, and division. This narrative revolves around personal choices—specifically, how we choose to engage with one another.

Recently, while out with a friend, I witnessed a moment at the cash register that highlighted this very issue. The cashier greeted my friend warmly and took her order, but upon noticing me, the cashier abruptly suggested I move to another line, as if I wasn’t part of the same group.

Despite our protests that we were together, my friend received a gracious farewell, while I was overlooked entirely. Has a similar experience happened to you?

Whether at a grocery store, gas station, or coffee shop, we all rely on these public spaces for our daily needs. Yet, the contrast in treatment can be stark. Have you felt the warmth of a genuine greeting or been met with indifference?

Chapter 2: The Preference for Self-Checkouts

This brings me to why I favor self-checkout options.

Self-checkouts allow me to bypass the potential for dismissal by cashiers. I can complete my transactions without the discomfort of witnessing how others are treated—often receiving polite acknowledgments while I remain invisible.

It’s frustrating to feel excluded in a society that I’ve navigated, especially when I speak the dominant language fluently. I yearn for a world where respect and kindness are the norms we experience daily.

I encourage everyone to observe how you and your companions are treated in public settings. If you notice a disparity in how you are both acknowledged, consider addressing it.

Imagine saying something like: "I've observed that you've been very courteous to me, but my friend hasn't received the same treatment. Could you extend the same respect to them?"

It's often challenging to voice such concerns, especially when feeling invisible. Many of us have faced moments of exclusion, often in spaces designed to be welcoming for everyone.

Let's strive for a better world where we consciously choose to uplift and respect each other, fostering a sense of belonging for all.

In this humorous video titled "If Cashiers Behaved Like Self-Checkouts," we see an exaggerated portrayal of what it might be like if cashiers treated customers with the same indifference sometimes experienced in traditional checkouts.

The second video, "Self Checkouts - Do You Like Them or Dislike Them?" invites viewers to share their thoughts on the self-checkout experience, exploring both pros and cons in our everyday shopping routines.