Starbucks & A Religious Inquisition
I had a very unusual event occur about a week ago at the Starbucks on N 59th Ave & Union Hills in Glendale (That’s in AZ, for those of you who live out of the Phoenix area).
After having dinner at a local restaurant, I took my wife, 10-year-old grandson, and his other grandfather to Starbucks for dessert and coffee.
When I approached the counter, the young woman behind the counter, with a scowl, abruptly asked, “What is that ‘thing’ around your neck?” Assuming she was speaking about a chain I normally wear, I responded, “It’s a gold chain.”
Seemingly, more agitated by my answer, in an even louder voice, she said, “No. I mean those ‘things’ on the chain.”
I explained, they are a crucifix and a St. Christopher’s medal.
With a sneer, she asked, “Are you a Catholic?” To which I replied, “Yes. I am.”
Without hesitation, she said in a demanding tone, “What church do you go to?” To which I replied, “Saint Thomas More, about a ½ mile from here.”
With that, she turned to a co-worker and said, “I’ve got to get out of here; I’ve got a terrible headache.”, then turned and walked out of the building.
Having lived many decades, having traveled throughout much of the United States, as well as parts of Europe and the Caribbean, I have never, ever been asked about my religion, much less interrogated by anyone.
As for me, I’ve tolerated the unusually obnoxious attitude of many Starbucks’ employees over the years. But, this incident is the “last straw” for me. I can’t even give this woman the benefit of having a bad day; her attitude and “line of questioning” is far beyond a reasonable topic of conversation, especially for someone who’s in the position of providing a business service.
I can get coffee anywhere, and at a far lower price than at Starbucks. And, in the future, I will.
