I had the distinct pleasure of dining out not once, but twice over the weekend. It feels so decadent to return to restaurant tables, where we can sit face to face with someone we love, while someone brings us drinks and food, clears our plates as we finish eating, and continues to check back to see if we would like anything else. AND (this may be the best part) the dishes are washed by someone else!
As a friend and I sat luxuriously through a meal that lasted several hours, we caught up on everything we wanted to from the previous 12 months since we last saw each other. Maybe it shouldn’t seem like a vacation, to sit and connect on a beautiful and breezy summer evening, but it sure felt that way. We were not rushing through anecdotes, or trying to get to any point. We were just “being.”
The waiter was not as enthusiastic about our relaxed state of reconnection. Nor was the wait staff. In fact it seemed the longer we were there, the more frequently someone from the restaurant staff was at our table clearing dishes before they were empty; removing margarita glasses that were still half full; offering desert, the check, and nearly an escort out. It reminded me of my job(s) waiting tables as a young person.
At a certain part of my shift, my manager would say I was the next one in line to clock out. As soon as my tables were finished, I could leave. Freedom from my $2.90/hour shift was in sight! Then, the dreaded table of people actually enjoying themselves seemed to drag out forever. I would attempt to clear their dishes, bring them the check, anything to expedite their meal so I could cash out and make the most of what was left of my evening. Mostly that never worked.
Back to my dinner. Since I’d waited tables, and so had my friend we were both empathetic toward the expediting efforts of the restaurant staff. We understood their motivation, and it didn’t bother us one bit. We were in the moment, enjoying the breeze and the connection.
Three plus hours later, we asked for the check. A small one, though it was since we did more talking than eating or drinking. But we’d gotten great (if not too much) service and knew that our chance to provide remunerative appreciation was upon us. Though my dinner date usually insists on paying when we dine out, I was able to claim payment for this one. When I did, I added 50% of the check as a tip. Not because I felt I “owed” it, but because I appreciated the abundance of the evening, and wanted to share.
I was certain the waiter anticipated a tip based on the check total, as evidenced by his multiple attempts to upsell drinks, desert, anything he could. And I think I was right. Because, when he glanced down at the signed receipt his expression did a 180 degree change. His entire face lit up as he said “Thank you! Thank you so much! God Bless you. Thank you!” And slowly backed up away from the table.
Not only had we had a fantastic evening, but we were able to bring some light to the waiter’s evening also.
In those moments when we feel truly blessed, genuinely present and grateful, I like to look around and see how I can widen the circle of abundance to others. Sometimes it is a tip, other times letting someone with fewer items than I have, or restless kids at a store, go in front of my place in line. Holding the door for someone, offering to take photos of a group who are taking selfies, or saying hello to a stranger, are just a few of the endless ways I can find, to widen this circle of abundance and well being.
If you are so inspired, try this out. When you find yourself overwhelmed with Joy or Abundance, look around and see how, where, or with whom you can pass that good fortune on to. In my experience, this act of generosity not only widens the circle of abundance for others, but deepens my own sense of well being exponentially.