It was mid-afternoon or evening. I think it really depends on each individual, how they would describe that time of the day. It may seem fanciful or even “up-market”. Or maybe…the sun began to feel its tiredness of the day, and go down; thus, turning the stage over to the night, moon and stars. I had just picked my wife from work, and the usual question, “What shall we have for dinner?”

We were in Subang Jaya. One would think we are spoilt for choice when it comes to food and restaurants. And we are.
However, after a long day at the office (anywhere can be your office), most people look forward to unwinding and relaxing. Choosing a place can be winding and un-relaxing.
Another criteria was that the restaurant had to be air-conditioned. The sun’s rays has been pelting down on us relentlessly and our humidity-o-meter has the pointer needle shooting way past maximum. (Some drama, I know. A bit of drama to accentuate the situation).
The easiest, fastest and more convenient place for food, and with air-conditioning to go for was McD’s.

We got to USJ 10, Taipan, within a few minutes. After circling around looking for a slot to park a car, we were successful. In our second round; we got a spot right in front of New Nanking which was closed for the day.
When we got into McD’s, Taipan USJ 10, Jeannie headed for the big order screen, the type that you have to profusely scroll up and down, and, left and right, to make our orders. I got ourselves a table near the McCafe (coffee area?) section.
While waiting for Jeannie, I watched this bubbly-spirited waiter greet each and every customer, thank them for coming by; even when most of the customers did not return his greetings or kindness. Here, I think the customers themselves, are not used to be treated with kindness, with respect, with pleasantness, so much so that they don’t expect to get it from anyone. And if they did get it, they won’t know how to respond.

Today, Hazeem, added a bit of a spark in Jeannie’s and my life, and to all those other customers who had the opportunity of receiving his greetings, great customer service and kindness.

McD’s has a feather in its cap by having Hazeem as a member of their staff. We need more people like Hazeem to brighten the day of people who are usually carrying with them the day’s heavy-burden.
It was nice meeting you, Hazeem. See you again soon.

\NOTES:
1. Apa mau makan? is Bahasa Malaysia for “What would you like to eat?”