The Stranger Diaries: The Taco Bell Girl!

Dear Diary,

For whatever reason, I often find myself lost in thought, reminiscing about random strangers I've encountered throughout my life. Some of them have left a small impact on me, while others seemed to serve no purpose at all.

I recall a brief period in my life when I struggled to find employment. I'm not entirely sure what was happening in the job market at that time, but for months, the only available jobs seemed to be in the fast food, delivery, and ride-share industries. Consequently, I took the job at Taco Bell, with the intention of finding something better in due time. During my two months there, I encountered a girl who would visit the drive-thru every single morning, consistently ordering a water cup, one breakfast burrito, and one mild sauce pack. She would present her student ID badge at the window, giving her a ten percent discount. Although, I can't recall the exact amount, it was always under $1. Initially, these interactions didn't pique my curiosity, until one day during my break, I noticed that she had parked her car right next to mine. It was then that I realized she had black window covers on three of four of her car windows. Despite her daily display of her school ID badge, it never occurred to me that she was attending the university just down the street. Perhaps I simply didn't care to notice. However, as the cover lifted on her passenger window, I caught a glimpse inside her car. The backseat was filled with various items- clothes, bins, and bags filled with boxed food. I distinctly remember spotting a box a of Cheez-it and briefly contemplating how much my husband enjoys them. It became evident that she was living out of her car.

A whirlwind of questions flooded my mind. Did she choose to live in her car in order to afford her education? Why attend such an expensive school if she couldn't afford it? What was she majoring in? Before I knew it, my break was over, and I had finished eating.

From that point on, whenever she visited the drive-thru, I made a conscious effort to pay attention to her. I noticed subtle changed in her appearance, such as switching her hair part from left to right. I noticed how organized how she was, as she always had the exact amount of cash ready, along with her badge, to show at the window. I also admired her politeness, as she would graciously thank me with a smile both before and after receiving her meal.

I have since then left that job, but occasionally her image resurfaces in my mind, wondering how she is doing now. Did she complete her education? Did she find a stable place to live? What flavor of Cheez-it's did she have? Is she safe? Wherever she may be in life, I sincerely hope she is achieving her dreams and continues to face each day with bright a smile.

Sincerely,

Aqua