Hot Week | What A Smile Can Do

Hot Week

It's been a helluva week. As in super hot and humid -- the humidity even went past 80%. You know that kind where you don't need to do anything, just stand outside and you'll be soaking wet within a minute- that kind. There were even mornings when we wake up to a flooded doorstep because of all the moisture that accumulated on our glass door.

Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi. 31.August.2024. Mid-day

This is despite the news that the Suhail star has been spotted already last week and that should indicate the end of the peak of summer in the UAE.

UAE: Suhail star spotted, marking end of peak summer

(Khaleej Times)

Even in the middle of the day, when the sun is supposed to be shining bright, the visibility is low. There was even news last week where the speed limits were reduced by the authorities due to red alert issued for fog.

So I practically stayed indoors most of the time the past week. Literally not going past one meter away from the door. LOL.

Imagine those who have to stay outdoors this whole time without any choice because that's what they need to do, e.g., gas attendants?

Burj Mohd. Bin Rashid, the tallest building in Abu Dhabi, UAE in a humid afternoon.

That Kind of Service

Yesterday, I passed by the petrol station to refill. It was around 1:00PM, so hot and humid at 44°C (111°F). It was not very busy, but a car was in front of me, already being served. I was next. I noticed the gas attendant courteously acknowledged me and timidly smiled and signaled me to wait. He did not have to. Anyway, I did not have any choice but wait, right?! LOL.

As the car in front of me drove away, he waved at me to move forward. I opened my window and saw the poor guy drenched in sweat.

"Good afternoon, mam!" he greeted with a warm smile. Then he went on to refill my tank.

In between, he attended to the other car on the other side of the pump. Then he went back to me and even offered to wipe my windshield. They usually do that, but not all of them. And I did not expect him to, given how unbearably hot it was. I declined. I didn't feel inclined to give him more work. Considering I was not carrying any cash to tip him (not necessary).

Smile. It's free.

I drove away with a smile on my face. It was a very pleasant encounter on an uncomfortable, humid afternoon. It just goes to show how a simple smile could go a long way. It's also a reminder to me, who naturally has that resting biatch face, to consciously put a smile across my lips. It could instantly change the atmosphere, and who knows, could inspire another person like what this gas attendant was able to do to me.

How about you, how were you inspired today?