And You?

I've noticed something about myself within the past few years; something negative.

When someone I don't know (cashier, teller, phone operator, etc.) asks me how I am doing, I say "Fine, thank you" or "Not bad, thanks" and that is all.  I never follow up with "and you?"  This was brought to my own attention when at one point, someone expecting to hear "and you?" and not hearing it still answered, "I'm fine, thanks."  I felt like a heel.

I  am not a rude person  I don't know why I do this!  I mean, I have thought of a logical explanation, but I still don't like it.

My logic is: I don't know these people; should I care to ask back how they are?

How rude is that?!?  Very!   Shame on me!

I have truly made an honest, heartfelt, conscientious effort to ask the question.   "And how are you?"  I may not know them, I know what the answer will be 95% of the time, but I am going to ask it anyway!