Man, today was a wild ride. I mean, like, seriously intense. I’m just a cashier at this little shop on HaShalom Street in Shefar-am, right? You know, the one with the bright blue awning? Yeah, that’s me. So, I roll into work, coffee in hand, ready to tackle the day. The sun’s shining, and I’m thinking, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Ha! Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill. First off, I get there, and the line is already out the door. Like, c’mon people, it’s just a grocery store! I’m standing there, ringing up customers, and this one dude, I swear, he’s got like 20 items. And he’s just chatting away about the weather. I’m like, “Bro, it’s hot. Can we move it along?” But no, he’s gotta tell me about his cat, Fluffy. I mean, I love cats, but not while I’m trying to scan your cucumbers, ya know? Then, outta nowhere, the power goes out. Just poof! Dark. I’m standing there, like, “What the heck?” Everyone’s freaking out. I’m trying to keep it cool, but inside, I’m like, “Great, just great.” So, I grab my phone, turn on the flashlight, and keep ringing people up. It’s like a mini disco in there. And then, this lady comes in. She’s all frantic, looking for her kid. I’m like, “Lady, I’m just a cashier, not a babysitter!” But I help her out anyway. We’re running around the store, calling out for her kid. Finally, we find him in the cereal aisle, munching on some Frosted Flakes. I mean, priorities, right? After that chaos, I finally get a break. I step outside for some fresh air on HaRav Kook Street. It’s nice, you know? The smell of fresh falafel from the stand nearby. I’m thinking, “I need that in my life.” So, I grab a pita, and it’s like heaven in my mouth. But then, I see this guy on a bike, zooming down the street. He hits a pothole and goes flying. I’m talking full-on cartoon style. I can’t help but laugh. Like, dude, you okay? But he just gets up, brushes himself off, and keeps going. I’m like, “What a champ!” Back inside, the power’s still out. People are getting restless. I’m trying to keep the mood light, cracking jokes. “Hey, who needs a flashlight when you’ve got me?” But honestly, I’m just trying to survive. Finally, the lights flicker back on. Everyone cheers! I’m like, “Yay, we’re saved!” But then, the register won’t work. Of course, right? I’m hitting buttons, and it’s just beeping at me. I’m about to lose it. But then, this sweet old lady comes up. She’s got this big smile, and she says, “Don’t worry, dear. It happens.” And I’m like, “You’re right, lady. Thanks for being my therapist.” After what feels like an eternity, the register finally works. I finish up the day, and I’m exhausted. But you know what? I love this crazy city. Shefar-am is wild, but it’s home. As I walk home down HaYarden Street, I can’t help but smile. Today was a mess, but it was MY mess. And honestly, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.