Service With Style

--by wayfarer, posted Aug 8, 2011

From time to time Julie and I meet in a supermarket cafe on a weekday evening. Because we usually arrive some time in the last hour before the cafe closes the service is usually less than good, with the staff more concerned about tidying up so they can get away quickly.

Yesterday evening, there was one young guy behind the counter. Even though he must have had lots to do he took the time to talk and made sure we had everything we wanted. The meal, when he brought it over, was really nice.

So, we decided to leave him a tip. I left the cash amongst the plates and, on the way out told him how much we had enjoyed the meal. He seemed genuinely pleased.

But a couple of seconds later he rushed after me with the cash. It told him it was him. He apologised and said they weren't allowed to take tips.

I looked around. There were no other customers and I hadn't seen any other members of staff. I was tempted to tell him just to put it in his pocket. Then I realised he was trying to do the right thing. Who was I to encourage him to do any different?

Seeing me hesitate he said, "There's a children's charity box over there. You could put it to that if you like."

So, I did, and I thanked him again. It was really refreshing to meet a young man who was so helpful, honest and considerate. Not only did he do a good job, he stayed true to his principles - and helped some needy children with the tip he should have had!

1687 Reads

Posted by wayfarer
Aug 8, 2011
Comments (9)

Readers Comments

MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: It is great when we come across those who still care enough to do the right thing. You both did there Wayfarer. Kudos to everyone! :)

Sydney wrote: I love this story!! That's really wonderful of him. What an awesome act of honesty! :)

Bluebell wrote: I have been a "victim" of the politicaly correctness, and it is so ... well you know the feeling. So in the UK I am very careful about tips ... The truth is that he could have lost his job because of that tip, sad but true... I am pleased that in the end everything ended perfectly. Maybe on day we can all listen to our hearts without any fear of breaking rules. Love, Light and Endless Blessings, Bluebell

Aurelia wrote: Wow, that's great. I've never heard of No Tips and a Charity box instead!!! They must hire those they feel are filled with integrity. Love it! :0) ~Aurelia

unknown wrote: An honest and genuine hospitable person can be a sunshine after a bout of rainy gloomy days ... I am equally glad to see you considerate of the person for who he is and encouraged him to consider charity ... Seems like a complete story to me :-) Thank you for sharing, your post was so heart-warming. God bless ... Deeper ...

JuneBug wrote: Yes, he could've easily pocketed that money but his heart was in the right place. It's so refreshing to read stories like this one !!! THANKS, WAYFARER !!! :D

erinvictoria wrote: What a great story. I love that you wanted to tip him, love how honest he was, and that he offered his tip to help children. What a great evening you had that night.

hasifa wrote: I'm lost for words. thank you for the post and the wonderful gesture to that young man.

moral12 wrote: Amazing young man, sticking to his principles. Thanks for sharing.

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