The Motel Managers Story A Big Arrogant-Looking

The Motel Manager’s Story A big arrogant-looking fellow from a city several hundred miles away has just checked into your motel. He gives the impression that he is a big-shot government worker. He addressed the desk clerk in a grumpy and condescending manner and grumbled about the fact that he was stuck in this low-level motel—the only one in town—while he usually stays at the Ritz or “minimally a Marriott.” After a short visit to his room, he storms into your office, claiming his air conditioner is faulty. You have recently spent $475 to repair the unit in his room. You are certain that he must have banged it with his fist and that he is responsible for the trouble with the unit. You are not about to let him push you around. The Traveler’s Story You have just settled into a rather dumpy motel, the only one in this godforsaken town in the middle of nowhere. You are sweaty and tired, and wish your bor- ing job didn’t include travel to rural areas where there are no decent motels. It is mid-August, and it’s hot. You flip on the switch to the air conditioner; there is a buzz, a