...sometimes it's hard to soar with the eagles when you're surrounded by turkeys.
...sometimes, working with the Army for 13 years (as I do), it's difficult when you have to work with people who just aren't...how can I say this politely...at your same functional level.
I had to make reservations last week for an incoming VIP. The local contact for these reservations was an admin assistant to a high ranking non-commissioned officer here on the installation. Nice as she can be....but (bless her heart), sharp as a bowling ball.
She wrote and asked for reservations - to which I reply, "Got it, I'll get back to you."
I checked into it - and, sure enough, someone ELSE was also driving the same car as this VIP, and had already made reservations. Ever-so-politely I advised this admin assistant that the lane was already covered - no need for her intervention, but it was all set, and I cc'ed her on the original confirmation. She thanked me, and replied that'd she'd be happy to move out of the lane, and sincerely appreciated my assistance and information.
I wrote back, closed the loop (this is, yet another issue with this particular individual - with the 200 replies for ONE SUBJECT)...and went on with my day, saying something like "Thanks, Claire [name changed]...always happy to assist if you ever need anything. Regards, Toma."
Her reply?
"Cool beings. Thanks Toma."
Yes. You heard me. Cool beings. I think that 'alleged' saying was popular for...oh...about 20 minutes when I was in 8th grade. And (again, BLESS HER HEART), she must've gotten in on it 25 years later...when...'cool beans' got lost in translation.
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "Love Don't Live Here" by Lady Antebellum (new on the scene, but I totally dig their sound)