Once, while dining at a Western restaurant with my family, the restaurant was quite crowded, and the service was slow. My meal hadn't arrived yet, but since we were a family, we simply shared each other's appetizers and main courses. No one else seemed to notice, but I kept it in mind. When the waitress brought the drinks, she apologetically asked if a meal was still missing. I confirmed it was, and she politely apologized before leaving.
Within thirty seconds, the owner, accompanied by the chef, approached me. They apologized profusely, explaining that the main course had just been placed in the kitchen and would take another twenty minutes. They asked if I could wait or if I preferred to cancel the order. I replied, "It's fine. I know you're busy today. I'll wait and have it packed to go when it's ready." The owner and the chef thanked me repeatedly before departing.
Shortly after, the children, who hadn't even ordered meals, were served desserts, fruit, and drinks. When it came time to pay, I was surprised by the total. The owner explained, "Because of your understanding and kindness, we've given you a 20% discount. The meal that wasn't served is free, and the children's snacks are also on the house." I smiled and said, "You're too kind." She replied, "Because you are so kind, we have no choice but to be even kinder to you." I left with a smile, not because I saved money, but because I realized that kindness can indeed be contagious.
In my professional life, I often have the opportunity to refer renovation clients to friends in interior design. According to industry practice, there is usually a referral fee involved, but I have never accepted one. Perhaps since high school, whenever friends tried to repay my help, I always declined. I told them earnestly, "If I ever need help, just lend me a hand." As a result, when my family travels away for a few days, I don't have to worry about the fish starving or the flowers withering; when I need to move heavy items, I don't need to hire a moving company; and when I lack transportation, I never worry about having no one to drive me...
