The invisible woman

By: Agnes Diggs - North County Times | Monday, January 3, 2005 8:52 PM PST ∞

I just realized that I have a super power.

You can laugh if you want to, but there are several people who, if called upon, could probably swear I am invisible.

I'm serious.

I've garnered several clues over the years that some folks might not see me when I was sure I was right in front of them.

A couple of times, it seemed I even channeled my hidden ability to my car, causing drivers to think they could pull into my lane without signals ---- presumably because they didn't see me right before their eyes.

And then there was that time in a luxury department store when the sales associate waited on several people who came up to her after I did.

I said, "Is there a particular reason that you are taking those people ahead of me?" and she said, "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't see you standing there."

And another time when a clerk rushed over and offered to assist a woman who arrived well after me. I turned to the recent arrival and said, "Excuse me, would you do me a favor, please? Would you look to your right and see if there's a tall, queen-sized black woman standing next to you?"

She turned and smiled at me as if she thought I was joking, so I pretended I was.

I have to admit, though, that one time I may have abused my special power. And, please, don't try this at home.

I took myself to dinner one Saturday evening at a well-known chain restaurant. If I tell you the name, I couldn't tell you this story, so don't ask me where.

Anyway, after bring pushed aside by several folks who rushed past me when the host said, "Who's next?" I was finally seated and served. When I was ready to leave, I tried in vain to signal the waitress for my check.

Eventually, it became a little game as I watched both time and the servers running away from me.

I stood up and paused to give them warning of my intent to leave. Nothing.

I walked to the front door and asked the host to get the manager for me. Then, I waited another 10 minutes while people whizzed by all around me.

I reminded the host a second time that I was waiting to see the manager. Finally, the elusive headman arrived ---- to ring up a sale at the register.

As he walked back toward the dining area, I stepped in front of him, took his hand, shook it energetically and said, "Thank you so much for the complimentary meal. I really enjoyed it. Have a lovely evening."

He nodded his head and smiled a tentative smile. I smiled also, and walked out.

The invisible woman strikes back.

Trouble is, I can't seem to control it. I mean, I'm never sure whether I'm using my power or the other person's just being ignorant.

Anyway, I share this with you because I know I can trust you. Not everyone gets to have a super power, so we need to keep this a secret between us friends. You know how it is.

Contact staff writer Agnes Diggs at (951) 676-4315, Ext. 3511, or adiggs@californian.com.