To me, an immigrant form the post-communist country, the ability to form a line without any quarrels and pushing around is always going to be a miracle. When I first saw a peaceful line, undisturbed by any loud voices of discontent at the bus stop, I just didn't know how to fit myself into this harmonious setting. Everyone in the line seemed to be very calm, accepting the fact that it will take them a while to get to the door.
'Perfect line components' don’t realize what kind of an ability they have. Even though I only experienced communist ruling as a child I can’t get rid of this 'line- annoyance' syndrome.
When I pick up groceries with my roommate I always carefuly choose to stand behind the line that seems the shortest or fastest. Then we do the ever popular trick of her getting on one of the other lines, in case I'm wrong. If I don’t make it to the register before my “partner” does I start stepping from one foot to the other and nervously move different parts of my body (fingers, neck). I am trying to calm myself down by forcing my mind to concetrate on other things: Stop it, it’s not worth it, drop it! Think about something else – Look! What a nice sponge you bought for your kitchen. Is that yellow more canary or sunny? Come on, stay with me! Canary or sunny? I bubble up the chicks and then deeply inhale and exhale couple of times.
NO, I can’t make it. It does not help. Why didn’t I stand in the other line????!!!!!! Aaaaaaaa… Other than that I am pretty normal!
