Reply #29: I used to BE one of the people who needed those tips

[LisaM]

Years ago I worked at a small coffee shop, the only employee. I wrapped muffins, toasted bagels and spread cream cheese on them, washed all the dishes, mopped the floor and cleaned the windows when I left, and also wiped the tables and put out the garbage. Plus making coffee.

And the tips people left really helped me out. I only worked a few hours a day, and even if it only added up to $5 or $6, it made a huge difference to me. Maybe I could afford to go out to lunch, or get a little treat that day.

I think a lot of times people have no idea of how much work the person they are tipping does. At the Mexican place I like to go to for lunch, they work their asses off, 3 women, running the whole place alone. I always leave a dollar.