Hawaiian Gratuity for a Special Waitress

--by brighteyes, posted Jun 19, 2008

After I married, we honeymooned in Hawaii. Both of us enjoyed our ten day stay-- the islands are gorgeous, the people loving, gracious and spiritual, the sunrises/sunsets one more spectacular then the next, the rainbows miraculously appearing each afternoon after a brief rain and the flowers so brightyly colored and diverse. What a paradise! We returned to one restaurant several times in Maui because I loved the buffet, the service, the outdoor tables where I could feed the birds, the ocean view and it was close to our hotel.

I befriended a waitress who symbolized the Hawaiin people to me: she was plump, middle-aged, super friendly, greeting us each time with a huge, warm smile, twinkling eyes, a deep booming laugh and a hug. She was quite chatty and so am I so we bonded instantly. She shared some of her life stories with us, which was so sad: hubby left, supporting several children, sick parents, working several odd jobs to make ends meet but challenges did not deter her joy of life or her positive attitude. I truly liked her and looked forward to seeing her each morning.

On our last day on that island, I decided to surprise her with a huge tip. I left her a $100 dollars partially hidden under a plate and a scribbled THANK-YOU on a napkin to let her know I appreciated her service and warmth (never told my hubby as he used to tease me about being a "soft touch" and way too generous--this was 20yrs ago and we were just starting out so were on a strict budget especially from the wedding expense and honeymoon vacation too).

I was not able to see her reaction, but I can picture it in my mind -- her surprise and delight about the HUGE tip! When I do, I smile and my heart expands - I am grinning! I hope I "made her day!" I never saw her again but I sometimes daydream about Hawaii and I still I think about her now and again and wish her well.

4123 Reads

Posted by brighteyes
Jun 19, 2008
Comments (17)

Readers Comments

faithnut wrote: What a lovely lady. Great hearts think alike. Im sure she remembers you in as much of a heartwarming memory!

praveendm wrote: Pure heart!!!

grammagussie wrote: Probably the best $100.ever "turned' What a heart warming story. I have been to Hawaii and you sure brought back the memories.

gratefulnessgalore wrote: Generous, thoughtful acts such as yours would certainly brighten anyone's heart. Keep the spirit and pass it on.

arnee wrote: Thank you for sharing. I bet Hawaii is beautiful but with a kind heart, it seems that YOU are more beautiful. :)

ankampranav wrote: it is wwdjfgffgshgadfsjkdbncvhjvxzxb vbnmgdhdhfasdkggdkjfhg;gflhfkjgbvk

sethi wrote: The waitress will be narrating this story to her grandchildren or even great great grand children. You are truly abundant in life. Thanks for the sharing.

followerofHim wrote: I have several friends who use to waitress and it makes such a difference!!!! One kind customer can wipe away the pains of many, many rude ones. God bless you!!!!

cabbage wrote: I have never been to Hawaii, but your description made me feel like I was there.
I am sure that you "made her day" for many many days to come! Your generosity is contagious! Thanks for sharing. :-)

lovebug wrote: I always wanted to visit Hawaii, thanks for painting such a vivid picture for me. Generosity has it own rewards ,I have always found this to be true both for the giver and the receiver.

Stories of Kindness from Around the World