When was the last time you heard “You’re welcome” or “I’m sorry”?  “No problem” used to mean there was a problem. Someone had made a mistake or had inconvenienced you. 

The Restaurant

Would you like a refill?
Yes, please. That’d be great.
NO PROBLEM.
Thank you.
NO PROBLEM.

Can you tell me where I might find the Rest Room?
NO PROBLEM. [Wait person gives directions.]
Thank you.
NO PROBLEM.

I’m sorry. I ordered the ribeye medium rare. This is a NY strip well-done.
NO PROBLEM.

Vacation Rentals

I just checked out the rental car. It’s a mess. There are dents and scratches everywhere.
NO PROBLEM.

We have a reservation. We’d like to check in.
NO PROBLEM.

I’m sorry. I have a hearing problem.
NO PROBLEM.

The plastic deck chair on the balcony just broke apart. I’m lucky my hip’s not broken.
NO PROBLEM.

The handle on the toilet just broke.
NO PROBLEM.

The Supermarket

Can you please help me find the Splenda. It’s not next to the coffee and CoffeeMate.
NO PROBLEM.  [Employee says it’s in Aisle 4.]
Thanks so much.
NO PROBLEM.

I hate to butt in, but I think it’s your son who just tipped over a row of canned fruit in Aisle #8.
NO PROBLEM.

Do you have a _____ Reward Card?
No.
NO PROBLEM.

The Airlines

Um. I don’t mean to be an alarmist. But the pilot just boarded the plane with dark sunglasses, a white cane, and a seeing eye dog.
NO PROBLEM.

Would you like coffee, water, Sprite, Diet Coke, regular Coke, orange juice, or tomato juice?
Coffee please, with two Splendas and cream.
NO PROBLEM.
Thank you.
NO PROBLEM.

_____________________________________________________

Gordon: Thank you very much for coming by Views from the Edge!”

Steve: NO PROBLEM!