booted from BINGO

Another funny tale for my collection:

Last Saturday I volunteered to help some older folks play BINGO. The coordinator encouraged me to arrive early, bring prizes, and greet people as they arrived. I looked forward to spending the Saturday morning playing and chatting with people. I arrived as instructed and began setting up, but was waylaid by a resident volunteer determined to show me how things were done. Though I was grateful for her wisdom, I felt confident in my instructions. "FINE!" she snapped, "you do it your way," and threw the box at me. At this point my blood pressure began to rise. What was about to happen? Things settled down. Everyone found their seat. After calling a few games, I felt good about the rhythm. People seemed to be in the zone... until... at the end of one round, a woman at the back table yelled, "Mildred, would you please call?" (Mildred was the woman who initially took offense.) Everyone gasped. Several "well that's rude" exclamations. She must not have liked my style. I chipperly said, "That'd be great. I'd love to play!" I don't know what I did, but apparently it wasn't up to her snuff. Who knew that BINGO was so serious? I guess that BINGO calling isn't really my Calling.

Why do we excuse older people's behavior? As if life experience suddenly gives permission for thoughtlessness or bad manners. Plenty of older folks are more than gracious, but no one cares to correct bad behavior in the grouches. I understand if it's due to a medical condition; however, I have little tolerance for rudeness from anyone of any age.