Fish, It’s What’s for Dinner
For the first time, in a very long time, I worked on a Sunday. I usually try to avoid them because it’s the one day of the week where everyone is either headed home or positioning themselves for the work week ahead. Flights are fuller and everyone’s on the road and in the air.
I had this couple in first class that didn’t speak English. Well, they could speak a little English — but not enough to get by. Once we were inflight and I was doing my post-takeoff beverage service the wife clearly said “Sprite” while the husband pointed to her and said “orange.” So I tried to clarify “Sprite?” He shook his head no, she shook her head yes. Then they looked at each other. I ended up bringing him an OJ and her a Sprite. No one complained, or maybe — they just didn’t know how.
The meal service, well — that was another issue. They had menus, but of course, couldn’t read them. So I tried: “Beef or Vegetables?” The husband response, “Fish.” Okay — let’s try this again: “Steak or Lasagna?” — He looked at his wife and said “Fish.” Okay — one more try. This time, I incorporated meal options from coach class: “Salad or Turkey Sandwich.” I was getting somewhere, the wife said “Salad” back to me.. I took that as a “Sure, I’ll have one of those – thanks!” Now, the husband was still set on fish. He didn’t give a rise to any option I mentioned.
I decided to give him the turkey sandwich. I placed it down in front of him, he ate all of it. When I went back to collect his tray he touched my arm and said: “Fish was good. Thank you.”
I just smiled and said: “You’re very welcome. Fish is good.”
Look Who’s Talking