[No.122] Father practices Buddhist teachings at McDonald's

To the library with my eldest daughter

Today, I took my eldest daughter, who is aiming for middle school entrance exams, to a larger library two stations away.

She dislikes studying and hasn't fully committed to the entrance exams yet, so her test scores fluctuate (she is currently in the fourth grade of elementary school).
Since she lacks focus at home with the family around and just keeps repeating inefficient study habits, I brought her to the library today on her day off to change her environment.

She didn't show much motivation at first, but perhaps inspired by the people around her studying quietly, she seemed to enter study mode halfway through.

In the meantime, I read a book I had started and messed around on X and note.
I hadn't been reading much lately, so wanting to focus on reading today was also a motivation for going to the library.

To McDonald's for lunch

Just past 11:30, when my daughter's studying reached a stopping point, we decided to go for an early lunch.

Me: "What do you want for lunch?"

Eldest daughter: "Then, I want to have Coke and french fries at McDonald's!"

McDonald's.

I like Freshness Burger, and McDonald's has that meaty feel that's a bit heavy for me, so I haven't been there lately.

However, my daughter worked hard on her studies, so I have no choice but to prioritize her wishes.

We stopped by a McDonald's near the library, but even though it was just before noon, it was crowded... as busy as ever.
We managed to secure seats, and when I tried to order at the cashless register, a man around 60 years old in front of me was trying to display a coupon on his smartphone and wouldn't place his order.

He should have had that ready beforehand...

I feel the same way every time I see people fumbling once it's their turn at the register.

I launch my smartphone app and take out my credit card or point card from my wallet while waiting, so I always finish at the register smoothly.
That should help the customers waiting in line, and everyone would be happy if everyone did that.

But do people who fumble at the register not think that far?

I have an impatient personality, but somehow it doesn't sit right with me.

I tried to practice the teachings on the spur of the moment.

Just as my heart was about to fall into the dark side, I suddenly remembered a passage from a book I had been reading at the library.

That's right, this is a 'reaction'!!

I am just making assumptions based on my own selfish biases, thinking, 'It's his fault for being slow,' or 'I'm a better person because I could do this smoothly.'

Even after reading the book, I haven't internalized it at all... It's pathetic, even if it is about myself.
No, labeling myself like that is also a type of 'reaction.' Now is the time to practice.

Surely this person is also living their life to the best of their ability just like this.
Perhaps they have had very painful experiences in the past.
That is not limited to this person; everyone in this McDonald's has overcome many hardships to get here. Since we are all human, instead of bickering, let's face each other with a spirit of mutual support.

...As I was thinking about these things in my head and spacing out, my irritation had disappeared before I knew it.

Do not react unnecessarily, and accept things as they are.

Oh, I can do it if I try.
I'll praise myself.

Just as I thought that, the man in front gave up for a moment and went to consult with the staff.

Well then, should I order first... hmm?

When I finally stood in front of the touch panel, my mind went blank and I couldn't remember the menu I had decided on beforehand!!
On top of that, I barely ever come here, so I don't really know how to use this touch panel (crying).

Watching my father fumbling around, my eldest daughter threw a harsh remark at him.

"Hey Dad, why are you being so slow? I'm hungry, so hurry up and order!!"

I really want to make this eldest daughter read that book too.