It Was a Man's World

It Was a Man’s World

On my way home from work I stopped by Demon Auto Parts to get a water pump for my car.  The parts man at the counter listened as I told him what I needed.  He smirked and asked, “Are you planning on doing this yourself, missy?”

“Yes.”

“You probably should take it to a mechanic.”

“Thanks, but I can’t afford a mechanic.  I can do it myself.”

“But your car is an import.”

“Yes, I’m aware of that.”

“That means there are several different kinds.”

“There can’t be several different kinds for my particular model or engine.”

“Look, darlin’, let me help you out.  I know a guy that will do it and he won’t charge much.”

“I’ve just told you I can’t afford a mechanic.  I can only afford the water pump.”

“How are you going to put it on?”

“The same way I put the last one on.  One bolt at a time.”

“Imports are delicate and it takes someone familiar with them to make them run right.

“Are you going to sell me the water pump, or not?”

“I’m afraid I can’t do that with a clear conscience.”

“Is there somewhere else I can get a water pump?”

“Not that I know of.  We’re the only parts house in town that handles imports.”

“Then give me the one I need,” I demanded.

“Honey, you need a mechanic to put it on for you.  It’s nice you want to try it yourself, but you can’t do it.”

“Do you have a manager?”

“Yes.”

“Either sell me the water pump or get the manager for me.”

“Okay, but he’s going to tell you the same thing.

The manager came to the counter.  “Hi, how can I help?” 

“I want to buy a water pump for my car.  Your parts man refuses to sell one to me.”

“Who is your mechanic?  We’ll have it delivered.”

“I don’t have a mechanic.  I’m going to do it myself.”

“Honey, I don’t think you should do that.”

“I don’t care what you think; just sell me the damn water pump.”

The manager looked at me and shrugged.  The parts man left for a moment and came back with a water pump and laid it on the counter.  I paid, picked up my water pump and headed towards the door.

“Hey, Missy!” the parts man hollered.  “You forgot your cardboard box.”

“What’s that for?”

The parts man laughed and said, “It’s to put all the pieces in once you find out you can’t handle a man’s job.”



(422 Words including title)