Moldy Food

Have you ever gotten a meal that somehow came out both burned and lukewarm? Did you send it back, or just move your food around on the plate hoping the waitstaff wouldn’t notice? Have you ever gotten a haircut that made your head look like a fluffy triangle? Did you return to get it fixed, or did you just smile and give a 25% tip so the stylist wouldn’t notice the tears welling in your eyes? If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been absolutely mortified by the prospect of appearing to be a dissatisfied customer.

But I’m changing.

I have now sought two rejections for moldy food. The first actually happened the week before 52 Rejections went live. I was really excited to open my new block of Athenos feta, and it was moldy. Yuck! I attached a photo to my very polite email, and they sent me a hand-addressed letter with a coupon for a new block of cheese. So that rejection happily failed!

Now, I’ve written the farm that sold me an expensive, but moldy box of fruit. I immediately ate a delicious apricot, and then, eager to dig into the rest of the fruits, my hand collapsed around a ball of green, fuzzy peach mush. I hated having to reach out to the farm with a complaint, but I tried to be extremely diplomatic. “My first apricot was beautiful,” I wrote, “and I realize that shipping fresh fruit is challenging. But, given the cost, I would appreciate if you could replace the spoiled fruit.” I thanked them for their time and signed off.

The fruit may or may not arrive. I’d love to get to eat it! I’m noticing that I’m definitely not yet comfortable asking for what I want because I’m afraid I’m being rude. But it’s probably good practice, right?

UPDATE: The farm was very apologetic about the fruit and is sending me a replacement box. Yippee!