On Why Giving a Tip Matters

The book and the coffee. And oh, notice my shoes.

I.
Fast Forward:
This week, I received free hugs from strangers.

I received a huge discount on a book I've bought in a thrift shop.

I received extra allowance from my father for some assignments I've rendered.

I received remunerations for a job I was even willing to do for free.

I won money from a scratch card I've bought from a Lotto outlet using  a five cent coin that came from a tip jar in a certain coffee shop.


II.
Flashback:
On my way home last Saturday, after a long day of  photo walking at Quezon City Circle with my friend, I decided to pass by Cubao Expo to unwind. But the thought of getting my self beer did not appeal to me, I was more interested to read the new book I had just bought.

A certain coffee shop caught my attention. Its ambiance was like an exhibit place for photography enthusiasts. Looking around the shop, it seemed there were very little pictures on display. I entered the coffee shop and ordered a cup of coffee. (They only serve coffee and tea.)

After finishing my coffee and reading a few chapters of my book,  I searched for the tip box, but there was none to be found. What I found instead, was a little jar on the far corner of the bar which has "Feeling Tipsy?" written on it.

I asked the barista what the jar was for and whether it was a tip jar. She said smilingly as if embarrassed, "Wala yan sir." and proceeded to attempt to hide the jar. I told her, "miss wait,  puwede ba akin nalang to?" I asked if can have the five cents inside the jar. She said yes.

I took it as a "sign."

I reached for my wallet and put in the jar the biggest tip I've ever given for a cup of coffee.

The barista was very surprised. For a second, she thought as if it was a scene for Wow Mali.

I told her, "That's for you. The coffee was great, thank you. Good job!"

She said,  "thank you sir." with all smiles.

I left the coffee shop learning the true meaning of the old maxim:

It's better to give, than to receive." 

Acts of sharing, giving, serving others, passing it forward, and gratitude uplift the soul and enrich the spirit.



Cheerio! :D

-- Rah.