I realized I was going to get through this disappointing service, and anyway, you have to be somewhere: better here, where I have heard truth spoken so often, than, say, at the DMV, or home alone, orbiting my own mind. And it's good to be out where others can see you, so you can't be your ghastly spoiled self. It forces you to act slightly more elegantly, and this improves your thoughts, and thereby the world.
The author reflects on how disappointing service can be a situation that one must navigate, and despite its frustrations, being in a place where truth is frequently shared is more valuable than being isolated or at an unproductive location. The acknowledgment of being present in a shared space offers a perspective that shifts away from negativity and self-absorption, highlighting the importance of community and engagement with others.
Furthermore, Lamott emphasizes that being in public encourages individuals to rise above their worst tendencies. When exposed to others, there’s an impetus to conduct oneself more gracefully, which positively influences one's mindset and overall outlook on life. This interaction can lead to personal growth, making not just the individual better, but potentially improving the wider world around them.
