My grandparents’ fiftieth wedding anniversary was last Wednesday.
In keeping with their custom, my grandma Doris wanted to commemorate the date of my grandfather Walter’s death, which occurred two years ago.
Wearing the navy blouse and pearl brooch he had given her, she decided to go to the same restaurant where they had celebrated each year. Even if it was just for one night, it gave her a chance to feel close to him once more.
She saved just enough for the bus cost, ordered their normal lunch, and left a twenty percent tip—everything she could afford. However, Jessica, her waiter, cruelly remarked about why she was “alone at her age” and loudly ridiculed her for leaving “too little” tip.
People looked around. Disgraced, my grandma packed up her belongings and walked home in silence, crying as she went eight blocks.
She informed me what had happened the following day. I listened while I felt angry and hurt. I wanted Jessica to really see the consequences of her actions, not simply yell at someone online or write an angry tirade.
This wasn’t about retaliation—it was about making sure she could never claim unfamiliarity of the harm she caused.
I deliberately requested Jessica to be our server when I made a reservation at the same restaurant. I was joined by my photographer friend Jules.
We ordered the priciest meals on the menu and dressed up for the event, selecting sophisticated attire to establish the mood. I wanted Jessica to think she was going to get a big tip, the kind that could help her forget how harsh she was—until the time came for the reality.
I gave her an envelope when dessert arrived. There were multiple napkins with the words “You should be ashamed” written on them, which my grandmother was unable to pronounce that evening. “She is not a wallet; she is a widow.” “Karma is on its way.”
I let her take them all in, watching her face shift as the meaning sank in. Every word was planned, meant to echo the sting she had given my grandmother.
Once she finished reading, I told her, cooly and clearly, exactly what had occured: the anniversary, the outfit, the tip, the walk home in tears.
My voice never rose. I wanted her to feel the truth, not my fury. Jessica didn’t walk away smiling this time. Whether she alters or not, she can never again pretend she didn’t know the harm she caused.
