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.