I have been a waitress for a few years now, and I have had my share of interesting customer reactions. I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly. I’ve met young people, old couples who are still madly in love and people talking about their adventures and dreams. There are people who come in on a daily basis, whom I have gotten to know by name. Others are frequent visitors, but they remain reserved and content with their hot tea and usual english muffin. But every once in a while, you meet someone who is really special. And if you are lucky enough, you may even be special to them.

Throughout my time at the luncheonette that I have been at since we opened in 2014, I have waited on a wonderful couple who travel back and forth between New Jersey and Florida. They were always lovely and kind, very happy to sit and talk to each other over some decaf coffee. But recently, I have only seen the man. It turns out his wife is in Florida, staying a little longer. This wonderful man, who is young at heart and full of love, comes in every day and sits in the same booth awaiting a hot cup of decaf coffee with cream on the side. He always sits on the left side of the first booth, so he has a view of the entire restaurant. I always try to wait on him if I can. He has easily become my favorite customer. Sometimes, if it’s slow, I sit down for a minute or two and talk to him about his day as he eats his usual tuna sandwich. He has a great sense of humor and always seems to make me laugh. We joke about his trips to the post office, some of which I join him on. He always says the same thing: “I swear, if I walk all the way to that post office and there is nothing there, then I’m gonna be upset, ya know?”

He usually stops by during the middle of my shift, when there aren’t too many people around. Today, I was able to come into work later than usual, and had to run to the bank once I got there for my boss. As I was waiting in line, I saw my favorite customer, Mr. Risdon. He was at the teller next to me, and saw me as he turned to leave. He had a big smile on his face, one that matched the one on my own face. He said hello with gusto and introduced me to the teller who helped him as his “favorite waitress” and that I “always took care of [him]." At that moment, my heart was filled with love. I don't remember what else he said, but I remember how wonderful I felt at that moment.

Kindness can change lives. One smile, a compliment, or simply a kind word can improve someone’s day. Choose to kind and compassionate and often as possible. Listen to people who choose to share their story with you. I’m thankful for where I work, and even more thankful for my wonderful customers.