Why is it that those who can least afford it..........

tip me, and those who in all probability can afford it, don't tip me? The disparity of this hit me last night. I drive for a ride sharing company. My last trip last night was taking a guy and his girlfriend home at about 2 a.m. They had been drinking and the woman fell asleep. I had a conversation with her boyfriend, where I learned that he had totaled his car a couple of months ago, and due to his currently not working he was unable to buy a car at this time. When I got to their home, (located in a City middle class neighborhood) I learned that no bus runs on their street and the closest bus stop was about 3/4's of mile away. So when he does find a job, without a car, it will be a trek for him to get there.

When the trip was over, fare was $22, he handed me $5, when tipped, I always thank the passenger and I also added to him last night, that I truly appreciated it.

Last night's experience made me reflect on those passengers I have picked up from their homes that are in neighborhoods where the houses are valued at $300,000 and above (and from conversation I find out that my passenger(s) are attorneys, architects, bankers & other such professionals) and I've taken them on rides that have cost anywhere from $10 to up to $97 and no tip was added to the fare or given to me.

I don't ask for tips or have my hand out waiting for something to be handed to me & am pleasantly surprised when I find that something has been added to the fare.

I asked my 84 year Mother the same question I'm asking here and Mom's response was that those who can't afford it can empathize with others, and those that can afford it expect to be served and feel that they don't have to "pay" extra for the service being given.