Happy to be here

I flew into Chicago on Sunday. When I got off the plane I was greeted by a sign that said, “We’re happy you’re here.” Just like that — in quotes. And I’ll admit it, the quote marks stung. I thought boy, I hope it’s not some kind of dig. As in, “oh, we’re soooo happy you’re here.”
I’m tired. I’ve come a long way. I don’t need the grief.
A few minutes later I saw another sign that said We’re happy you’re here — no quote marks this time. And I thought great! It’s just a slogan! And I was happy to be there too.
Then, as my cab pulled away from the airport, I saw a sign that read “We’re happy you’re here” — it’s more than a slogan.
And I thought what the hell? Does that mean it’s both a slogan and a dig?
Are they happy I’m here or not?!

Comments

5 responses to “Happy to be here”

  1. rodney k. Avatar
    rodney k.

    CV,
    This is hilarious.
    I’m happy you’re there.

  2. bigapple Avatar
    bigapple

    sure it’s tempting to seek validation from major urban areas, but it’s a rough road, vortex. we’re really really busy and we can’t always get back to you, even when we love you, as we do, you know, as we do….waiiitttt a minute–chicago? did you say chicago?!? what, we’re not enough for you anymore?

  3. other dan Avatar
    other dan

    no, they are not happy, no american is happy.

  4. Laura Avatar
    Laura

    I think if you put the emphasis on “we’re,” it all falls into place.

  5. Itto Ogami Avatar
    Itto Ogami

    it’s classic urban schizophrenia. they need you there as a consumer, but can’t stand your ugly alien presence. they want to hear the ching ching without seeing/smelling/touching/hearing you.
    no offense, but can you blame them? just ching ching and begone.
    “have a nice day”

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