Patience is a virtue. Unfortunately, it is not one we always have, especially while waiting in a long line that stretches into the horizon or sitting at a table in a restaurant for what feels like years rather than minutes.

In these situations, instead being patient, we often succumb to feelings of annoyance or “hanger” (anger when hungry), which we then use as a catalyst for how we treat the employees of the establishment we are at when they come to serve us.

This is only human, and as humans we are flawed, of course, but this does not justify our rude tendencies toward employees who work in customer service.

It is simple: Be kind to the employees in customer service. Whether they be standing behind the cash register in a department store or in the drive-thru window of a fast food chain, they are people, too. They deserve to be treated with mutual politeness, respect and patience. Being a customer does not make you entitled to ignorance.

Was your food prepared incorrectly? Bring your meal to an employee, explain the problem and ask if there is anything that can be done, all in a courteous manner. Too bitter, or not a confrontational person? That is what the Internet is for. Go on Yelp, make an anonymous username and type out your complaints behind the shield of a computer screen. No one deserves to be yelled at or mistreated in a public establishment in front of people over an ill-prepared meal when much more mature and easy solutions are within the grasp of the unsatisfied customer.

Getting frustrated because a store does not carry your size? Do not leave the dressing room or clothing displays in a disaster that reflects the angry thoughts cluttering your brain. Instead, find an employee and share that your choices did not fit or work like you expected. In response, the employee will be able to return the items to their correct location and often times, will offer a solution to your wardrobe malfunction, such as checking storage or ordering the item online while in store.

People of all ages work in customer service for a variety of reasons. Some are working to pay their tuition, others may be working to support their families and some may be working for extra pocket change. No matter their age, and no matter the reason they are an employee, they deserve the same respect and courtesy that you as a customer expect.

It all comes down to what we have been told since we were young children: treat others how you want to be treated. No matter someone’s job, position or status in general, we are all human and we all deserve to be treated equally.