Showing a little humanity can make a world of difference. In an era where many live on minimum wage, every penny is precious. When dining out, it’s worth remembering that restaurant staff often go to great lengths to satisfy their customers. So returning that kindness when possible is always appreciated. This is exactly what happened to Kasey Simmons, who loves making people happy. But on a fateful Tuesday, it was Kasey who found himself beaming. Working at an Applebee’s, he served a customer who ordered the cheapest item on the menu: flavored water, which cost $0.37. To Kasey’s astonishment, the customer left a $500 tip along with a poignant note on a napkin.
Just the day before this surprising event, Kasey was at a grocery store where he noticed an elderly woman in need of help. No one else stopped to assist her, so Kasey stepped in. He later commented, “It was only $17, but it’s not about the money. It’s about showing someone you care.” The life-changing tip ultimately came from this woman’s daughter, who explained that Kasey’s simple act of kindness had significantly lifted her mother’s spirits on the third anniversary of her husband’s passing.
Lady Leaves $500 As Tip For Restaurant Worker For Helping Her Mother
The note read, “On one of the most depressing days of the year… you made my mother’s day wonderful. You insisted on paying and told her she is a very beautiful woman. I have not seen my mother smile this much since Dad died. You are one of a kind. Have fun with this… you made her year.” This heartfelt message likely meant more to Kasey than the money itself. In an interview with WFAA, Kasey shared, “It’s selfish really. When people smile, I feel better. It lightens my world.”
Recollecting the grocery store incident, Kasey elaborated, “I noticed there was a lady standing in front of me. It looked like she had been crying because every now and then she’d glance over at me. I went up to her and said, ‘It’s not raining inside. There’s no reason to look so down. I’m sure you have a beautiful smile because you are a beautiful lady.’ It was clear she was having a tough day, so I wanted to make her smile, but she kind of shut me down at first. After I paid her bill, I gave her my Applebee’s business card, which is how her daughter found me and left the generous tip.”
Kasey also recalled, “Every time I get to work, I say, ‘It’s a great day. I’m going to make some friends and make some money.’ That day was the worst of my Applebee’s career. I was having such a bad night that I was about to walk out, but then this family came in. I introduced myself, letting them know I was behind on orders.” After taking their order, Kasey brought back a $0.65 check, per their request to split it between two credit cards.
Kasey humorously added, “At this point, I thought, ‘This lady’s crazy.’ She asked me to split the 65 cents between two credit cards. I asked, ‘Are you serious?’ I think she wanted to see if I was genuinely nice or just faking it.” Of course, he obliged, split the bill, and brought it back. Much to his surprise, the lady left $500.37 as a tip, accompanied by the unforgettable note.