Working the in the restaurant industry in the US, I've been thinking a lot about this lately. Why do some people get so angry with strangers? I honestly don't understand how someone you don't be know can illicit such strong feelings from a person. Especially from a person who is usually just doing their (fairly underpaid) job.
I'm a line cook/hourly manager at a large steakhouse where I live and the stories I hear about what happens out front on a day to day basis these days are just astounding. Our servers are screamed at, mocked for wearing their masks, belittled for pulling the mask down to take a drink in the public eye, accused of somehow being responsible of mask mandates, etc. It's a damn global pandemic and some countries still aren't even allowed to have dine-in restaurants! I just really wish USians could realize what they have and stop being so angry about it!
It's not hard to be nice. I'm not saying you have to tip an absurd amount or anything, I'm saying literally just using manners and saying thank you. Being patient, understanding that this is one of the only industries that was named essential enough to never close down yet not get any sort of special treatment or recognition, and we are TIRED. We didn't get quarantined or unemployment, hell, almost everyone I work with hasn't had a vacation in years because of the cost, well before the pandemic. How can a person swear/scream/spit at someone who is trying to safely bring them food?
I always try to see the bright side of things, but today after having multiple servers on the verge of breakdowns from terrible treatment from our guests, I'm just upset. I know we are considered a "low class" but I don't care, we still deserve basic human respect. We all eat. Thank your server, understand they do a lot behind the scenes, appreciate you even get to eat inside a restaurant right now! I'm tired of seeing my girls in tears!!
