People Watching

One of the benefits to being a waitress most definitely is the vantage point by which I am able to view the world:through my customers' eyes. I can tell you that nearly everyone in this country has something in common-no matter the race, ethnicity, language or socioeconomic status. It's the American way! Congratulations, you're the proud owner of, yes...a sense of entitlement.

What makes people think that because they are paying for a meal, they also are paying for the privilege of "owning" their server for the duration thereof? Attention getters of the past, including whistles, claps of the hand, and snapping may be long gone, but the spirit of such attitudes lives on. (By the way, adressing a twenty-something young lady with "M'am" is the worst way to get her attention. I almost never recognize the guest is speaking to me. The person usually has to simultaneously tap dance and do jumping jacks to make me notice. I may be a few things, but "m'am" isn't one of them).

A little gratitude will go a long way towards a more enjoyable meal for everyone involved. Speaking of, I am amazed at the penny pinchers who resent tipping for the service they receive. I've heard, "We should be like Europe. They don't tip in Europe! I hate worrying about how much to leave at the end of a meal." Hello!" It's not rocket science. The standard rate is 15% if you're cheap and 20% plus if you happen to be generous. And this is not Europe. This is the great US of A! We take our chances here. Victims or winners by the decisions we make at the hands of capitalism.
Many people rationalize their miserly ways by telling themselves servers have chosen to work in such a precarious profession. They are not responsible for the hard work we have to do and the oftentimes little we see in return. Obviously these people have never worked for tips before. In my experience, the guests who make you work the hardest are the ones more likely to stiff you. They don't understand. You may determine how much I go home with...YOU! Come on, like Obama says-Spread the Wealth! Or if you want to heed Biden, "Be patriotic." Give servers a bail out. We're counting on you!This is why servers tip their servers really well, even with less than excellent service. I'm not saying people who dine out should not expect to be waited on in a timely, courteous and accurate manner. I'm only saying recognize good service verbally and monetarily. It is expected and appreciated. Account for the tip as part of the price of the meal. If you cannot afford to tip, please go somewhere else to eat!
It is remarkable that my most pleasant guests have been the most forgiving of mistakes and the most generous tippers. Which is so refreshing! My most miserable people have been the stingy ones.
Do you want to be happy in life? Then be a good tipper. You'll leave the table satisfied that you are a good person. Try it.
The preceding has been an educational public service column provided by SERVERSUNITE at charlyfoy.blogspot.com