I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I’m deemed essential. So I work, exhausted, on the “front lines,” praying I won’t bring covid-19 home.

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I must enforce social distancing. “Can you please step back?”

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I must clean and sanitize every hour to keep us safe.

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I must be firm and limit you to one item as I listen to why you deserve more.

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I must direct you to wear a mask and pull it up over your nose, too.

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I must know the law because of every confrontation. Can I countersue for having a stroke from the stress I endure every day?

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I tell myself every day that 98% of the people are in this together with me. I am happy I can let them know they are not alone.

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I pray the people I haven’t seen are well, and my heart hurts for those who have lost loved ones during this time.

I only wanted to be a cashier. Now I am glad to see our efforts have helped. I hope to see you smile again and be well, all because I only wanted to be a cashier.

Monica Bensko

Salem

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