Over the years of living overseas and also being American has resulted in me frequently needing to interact with the Department of State primarily regarding my passport. I do not expect a great deal from these people because they are federal employees and you are completely at their will because they hold all the power.
That being said, i approached the NYC passport agency with trepidation. I was extremely well-behaved in the lobby as I went through the motions in security, and then made certain to have all of my papers ready to go expecting to be bossed around by everyone I encountered along the way. I don't know what it is about positions of governmental authority that convinces everyone to act like an overlord every step of the way but it does seem to be universal..... until yesterday.
The New York City Passport Agency on Hudson Street (the main office if i am not mistaken) may have been as effortless as it was because of the fact that it was the day before Thanksgiving and therefore almost completely devoid of customers. This may have lead to everyone being a good mood because they knew they were going to get the following day off of work as well.
I was nervous, as was evidenced by the fact that I went the correct way through the cattle-line despite the fact that i could have taken the shortcut to the front since no one was there only to be pleasantly greeted by an extremely friendly gentleman behind the glass.
All my papers were in line and he politely requested them on-by-one. He seemed to be impressed with the fact that I was already precisely aware of the exact requirements for renewing a passport, had an appointment despite the fact that it was completely unnecessary, and printed in a legible manor on my application forms. I have been abused overseas by government officials so many times that I come prepared!
I went out of my way to tell the guy behind the glass how much I appreciated the fact that he was nice and how it was completely expected and I hope that if he wants that he will get transferred to South East Asia in the not-too-distant future.
He said "have a great thanksgiving!" as i was leaving. I don't think it was just this guy either. The attitude of everyone else I encountered was pretty dern good. I think somewhere along the line someone came along and encouraged friendly behavior in this office and for that, on this holiday, I am extremely thankful.
