06/08/2017
A Landmark--and Memories
If you are a native northern Virginian, you would know that the Sears store in Falls Church, across from the Seven Corners shopping center once belonged to Lord and Taylor—a large chain of department stores. Almost 30 years ago, Sears took over this location when Lord and Taylor moved out. The building was more beautiful than most—with its marbled floors and dome café on the top level. The café served the best tea sandwiches and frozen yoghurt.
I spent almost 3 years working there part-time while I was in college. My memories of working there are still precious to me because it was there that I began my career in retail and more importantly, it was there that I was adopted by a handful of wonderful, kind, and generous “moms” I had ever met.
I was a shy 18 year old when I walked into the magnificent Lord and Taylor building. It was my first real job. I can honestly say that I may have been the youngest employee at the time. I soon realized that most of my colleagues were sophisticated women, in their 60s, with perfectly coiffed hair, starched linen dresses and ballerina flats. I was fascinated and intimidated. They were dubious of my lack of experience and maturity. What was I doing there?
Over a span of about six months, I was a harder worker and sought guidance from anyone who was willing to provide it. When I was promoted to a supervisory role at the old age of 19 years old, my colleagues became by biggest supporters. I loved my job, but I loved the women who would become my adopted “moms’ even more. They brought me food for lunch, gave me confidence (and big hugs and kisses), and made sure I succeeded.
When I took a leave of absence to complete my internship in London for five months, the store manager kept my position open. The women sent me care packages, and one of them, Mary (I still remember her first name) came to visit me in London. I returned to work once I finished the internship; it was like I never left.
It was reported this past weekend in an article from the Washington Post that the Sears building in Falls Church will be close—forever.
The Sears store, once my home, will close along with 2000 Sears locations that have already closed this year. It is an end to yesteryear.
It’s remarkable that after so many years, an event like the closure of a store can evoke such memories. I know that Mrs. Dennis and Mrs. Humphreys have long since passed—I can still smell their perfume and meatloaf, but they continue to shape my character. Now that I am a teacher, I try to provide the same compassion, guidance and generosity I once had from these unforgettable “moms.” The building will soon be gone, but I will forever hold my fond memories of these women in my heart.
