Ever since I went back to work 14 years ago, I've indulged in a professional manicure once or twice a month. My manicurist knows me well. I've been a faithful customer, never canceling my appointments; I'm a respectable tipper and I sooth her conscious on the rare occasion when she draws blood. I don't talk politics, I ask lots of questions about her garden, and I make concerned inquiries about her health, which hasn't always been the best. I even gave her one of my coveted Elephant Ear tubers to plant by her backyard pond.
So I find it odd that she doesn't like me.
Of course, she's never told me so in so many words. She's cheerful enough in my presence, isn't rude, doesn't scorn the condition of my nails, tease or make fun of me. But she never asks me personal questions, shows no interest in my family, doesn't seem to want to know what's growing well in my back 40, couldn't care less about my work or my writing. For some reason, she doesn't choose to know me. My sense is she just doesn't like me and it bugs me.
So why don't I find a new manicurist? Good question.
I stay because she does a good job and is conveniently located and reasonably priced. Although those are weak but acceptable reasons to keep going back, I've come to the conclusion that the main reason I'm a faithful customer is a strange feeling of commitment, of loyalty.
Does anyone else out there have a dysfunctional relationship that they won't give up on? Can anyone explain why I keep going back month after month only to come away feeling disconnected and a little diminished. Are my nicely shaped and polished nails worth the price I'm paying?
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1 comment:
She must be very very good in other ways to you so you go back.
Otherwise find another and see if she can make you happier.
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