The strangers wished me good evening at the restaurant.
I was somewhat shocked by this kind gesture, and I’ll tell you why.
Several years ago, I traveled through Europe for 3-1/2 months with one of my good friends. We spent several days in the coastal city of Nice, France to enjoy the beaches and warmth. All I ever want to look at are restaurant menus when I travel, and this was no exception. As soon as I stepped off the train, I went restaurant hunting.
On one of my evenings, I went out to a Chinese restaurant with 2 travelers from Canada. We were halfway through our meal when another table of guests got up to leave. Right before they exited the restaurant, the couple turned to us and wished us “Good evening” (“Bonsoir” in French).
No stranger had ever done that to me at a restaurant before!
My friends and I turned to each other and were touched by this simple and kind gesture.
Sometimes I feel like we are disconnected from the enjoyment of others. How often do we think about the table of diners at the other corner of the restaurant? Do we care if the person at the coffee table next to us got a good drink? I know that sometimes I’m so distracted by the people I am with that I forget to pay attention to the other eaters. This is something that I’d like to change.
Last weekend, as I exited a Thai restaurant in Seattle, I had the opportunity to wish goodnight to the people who were seated at our table after us. They laughed with me for a minute before I left. It feels just as good to give this gesture as it does to get it.
Your Assignment:
The next time you exit a cafe or restaurant, say something to one of the guests at the table by the door. This can be “Good night,” “Enjoy your meal,” or even “Bonsoir.”
This just might make their day.
If you’d like to help me spread European charm and kindness around the planet this season, please be sure to take on this task. Thanks!
© Ava Waits 2012
