While I could understand her frustration I couldn't understand her behaviour, or her treatment of the staff at that particular store.

For starters, the items were not sent from that store - it was just one of the many branches in a chain.

Secondly, the attack on the young team, trying to be helpful and sort through the problem, appeared to make the staff more nervous by the minute. For the record, I was impressed with their calm demeanour and efforts to tend to other customers while this woman continued to demand attention from all those on the payroll. However, they all appeared shaken by the situation. And no doubt some of the other customers were too.

As the line of those requiring service grew, this woman continued to loudly criticise the staff. I know it made me feel uncomfortable and concerned for the staff, although they continued to smile through gritted teeth, while trying to be attentive to others.

Eventually - within about 15 minutes - the staff had managed to work through the problem. The disgruntled customer stormed out of the store barking back that she had spent a lot of money at that store and she should in fact be treated like a VIP. Followed by the warning that she wouldn't shop there again.

Of course, it's annoying when an order goes awry, but human error happens.

I can also understand taking steps to have the problem corrected - but as the saying goes 'don't shoot the messenger'. The staff at this particular store were not the cause of the problem, but they were trying to do the very best to remedy the situation.

As far as the VIP title is concerned - every person deserves to be treated like they are important, including the staff, and the other customers lined up to make their purchases.

It occurred to me that the 'silly season' is well and truly upon us. With this in mind I hope people will show consideration for others and appreciate the joy, rather than the chaos, that is associated with the lead up to Christmas.

Remember it has been a tough few years for all, most have been challenged and struggled in some way or another.

Please be kind to others - and yourself - value the time with friends and loved ones, and don't let the little things bring you down. More importantly, don't take your frustrations out on others.

Above all embrace the positives in life. The Bay Post eagerly strives to draw attention to the good news in the community.

If you are looking for some good news stories then check out this one about free barista courses for school leavers and jobseekers.

Don't miss our story about not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT presenting Christmas packages to the Mogo Aboriginal Preschool.

Meanwhile our story about Justin Hemmes and what attracted him to Narooma gives a great insight into the well-known businessman.

And if you are in need of some soothing inspiration to get you through the busy festive season then look no further than the great image above of the eye-catching colours of the iconic Wagonga Inlet taken by Clickedbyk.

Stay well and be kind,

Jackie Meyers

Editor