Hi Joy,

Stories we tell build bridges between separate shores of our individual existence. They live long and travel far. They make us feel less alone. When we put our struggles to words, we give them shelter. You made a poignant shelter for your struggles here. One that spoke to me. Reminding me to always remember another. Especially those that rely on tipping while doing their job. A concept I found utterly wrong because I strongly believe that when someone, anyone is engaged to do the job they must be paid for their labour. Tipping could only ever be a bonus, a nice gesture of customer's appreciation, but never a wage substitute. Sorry for the long response, but it is something I feel strongly about. Making people rely on tips to get paid is exploitation.