Meandering around an issue of concern and talking oneself cleverly out of it might give us a street smart image, but it never yields us peace of mind. Never ! If we make mistakes, we must admit ! It never helps to beat around the bush.

Last night I went to dinner at Grinders. As I parked my car, stepped out and looked at the restaurant, I saw girls from inside stopping what they were doing and looking at their new would-be customer. The way they enacted it was synonymous with an Animal Planet channel's documentary on Hunting. How all members of a squirrel family stop for once and nervously try spotting any hunters...that kinda look.

When I saw them do that, I retired in my mind. Hunger gave way to self doubt. The neon sign read "OPEN". I felt they wouldn't be too excited to have me in. I nervously started searching for something in my pocket and looked at my car to realize I forgot to turn off the head lights.

Then without much hope but in two minds, I walked in and asked one of the pretty girls, " Are you closed ?" ..."No, we are open..." she said and smiled.

 "I'll take that one", I said and occupied a table to the left of entrance.

 As I waited for my order, I realized a glitch in my attitude. I rewinded and replayed my line : "Are you closed?"

Now, "Closed" is negative in a sense ! I should have asked : " Are you open, still ?". There ! "Open" feels so positive !

With time by my side, I saved myself because they close at 9. ( Again !.. see ! because they are open till 9 )

It's a no brainer that had I stepped in two minutes before nine, I would have returned hungry. At that minute had I asked her : "Hey, are you guys open, still ?", it would have forced her to let me in to save their reputation and earn business.

 See how little things make a difference ?