Waiting staff in the US rely heavily on their tips to make up for their low wages, but one server in Rockford, Illinois, was surprised to find the reason for the lack of a gratuity written on a receipt.
“Can’t tip someone who doesn’t love Jesus! Bad tatoo [sic]” wrote the customer, instead of a tip, for Samantha Heaton, who bears rainbow-coloured equality bars on her arm, and has been serving at Buffalo Wild Wings for a year.
Id like to thank everyone who helped share the love and prove that LOVE is LOVE❤️?️? https://t.co/Zv5uqMecSu — Joelle (@swimminmojo) August 7, 2017
Id like to thank everyone who helped share the love and prove that LOVE is LOVE❤️?️? https://t.co/Zv5uqMecSu
— Joelle (@swimminmojo) August 7, 2017
“It was shocking. I couldn’t help but feel hurt,” Samantha told the BBC. “I would’ve openly discussed my tattoo with them, had they asked. I talked to them about their food. They kept me constantly busy, but were not openly rude to me. I’ve never had someone write anything like this.”
Her friend Joelle Nicole Maish posted a photo of Samantha’s tattoo, along with the receipt on her own Facebook page, writing: “I would just like to say that being gay does not mean you don’t believe in God or Jesus. And people who are ‘religious’ should not disrespect or act in such ways to other people. PS, they spelled tattoo wrong.”
“She is the most amazing human I know. I bet she went above and beyond for you just for you to stiff her.” Alyssa goes on to ask why the customers didn’t ask for another server.
Samantha responded to Alyssa in a comment: “I love you thank you, and you are correct. I absolutely did come home with a smile on my face because no matter how awful people can be I know that you and my family are just perfect. I love you more then words could ever explain!”
Despite the outpouring of love and support, some people have been a little sceptical, and questioned whether posting the photo on social media was financially motivated.
