Disagreeing Isn't the Same Thing As Being Rude

I had a busy day off today and on the way home, I stopped at the dollar store to pick up a few items.

They had only one register open, so I was stuck waiting in a rather long line. Fortunately, the clerk was efficient, so the line moved quickly.

Unfortunately, an obnoxious, irate customer reached the register when I'd reached the second person back in line from that. She of course, ground everything to a halt.

What was her major maladjustment you might ask?

She was angry that the price was 20 cents higher than the price printed on the bag. It did not occur to her that the store could have raised the price since the bag containing the product had been printed. I understand being unhappy with a higher price, but the clerk has no control over such things and must sell the item for the price the store sets.

The clerk was very polite, telling her that the true price was on a tag attached to the shelf below where the product was shelved; had she noticed that price? She then asked her if she still wanted the item, despite the price.

The customer copped an attitude and insisted, "Yes I want it, but at the price printed on the bag! I want to talk to someone in charge!"

That person was standing right there, and she reiterated what the clerk had said. The customer said, I want to talk to the manager, and when told the manager was off that day, she raised her voice and said, "I want your names!"

At this point, I said, "That's it, lady. Hold up the damned line for twenty freaking cents!" The line behind me was quite long at that point. "Just because they didn't tell you want you wanted to hear doesn't mean they were rude. They're just doing their jobs. Now, either buy the damned thing or don't buy it, you f-in dumbass!"

She bought it at the store's price, then left quickly after giving me a dirty look.

After she'd left, I turned to the clerk and said, "I said that because I knew you wanted to and couldn't." She laughed, as did all the customers in line behind us.

Now, if it had been me, I'd have just bought it, then looked for a cheaper alternative next time. There was no point in giving the clerk a hard time, as they have absolutely nothing to do with the cost of the item.

Thoughts?