I've noticed a trend at work. More and more people are refusing their receipts. Now this isn't really anything new and it's no big deal, but it's left me confused. Isn't a receipt just an accepted part of any business transaction? Are these people asking the lady at Wal-Mart to throw their receipts away? And isn't it a little snobbish to assume that because they haven't touched that piece of paper that it isn't their problem? Even if it's still in my hand, that's THEIR receipt and THEIR problem. I wish they'd just accept it as part of modern society and take their responsibility. I'm looking at you, guy-who-rips-it-from-my-hand-and-leaves-it-lying-on-the-counter-for-the-next-person.
To make it worse, these are the same people who will call up with a problem and have no proof or evidence they were there. Oh sure it was offered to them, but carrying around five inches of paper was more burden than they were willing to bear. So they can call in their time of need, but won't do their part to solve any problem. On a side note, I think a receipt would come in pretty handy if you're ever questioned by the police and need to prove whereabouts. Too bad you shoved it down the drain of the soda machine.
The real reason I even bring this up is that the refusers have stepped it up to the next level. Some have started announcing they don't want a receipt before I've even touched the registers, as though it was part of their order. Just as many see it in my hand and start refusing it while backing away, shaking their head and waving their hands. The look of terror in their eyes makes it feel like I threatened them. One lady's reaction seemed more suitable if I'd said, "And you'll see your first outbreak in a few weeks," rather than a slip of paper with the word "burrito" printed on it. I guess all I'm asking for is a little personal responsibility. Take your paper and throw it away if you don't want it. Quit assuming the business owes it to you to take care of your garbage.
