One memorable Friday evening I suggested to her that we travel about half an hour to one of the nicer local eating establishments, Goodfellas. The only hang up: it was the same night as the ring dance for the high school where I taught mathematics. By Friday night I typically tried to avoid all contact with anyone under the age of 18, my own children not included, and thus all restaurants that might be playing host to the students. But this evening we threw caution to the wind, arranged for a babysitter, and went out on a date.
Sure enough, upon arrival at the restaurant we recognized two couples—on a double date—eating dinner before the dance. Fortunately, these were some of the finest my school district had to offer, four great kids that I didn’t mind seeing. It seemed that they had arrived only shortly before we did. I think I may have gone over and said hello before taking my seat, but in any case I acknowledged them and didn’t intrude.
Susan and I were seated, ordered, and then had a very pleasant dinner. Conversation might have been about Michael and Elizabeth, or school, or math, or perhaps we just sat staring at each other. Most likely math.
Towards the end of dinner our waiter approached our table and announced that our bill had been taken care of for us. I remember thinking that people only say that in the movies and never in real life. No one just pays for your meal without good reason. On the other hand, the waiter was just standing there and was not acting as if this was a joke. When we asked by whom, he gestured to the four high school students on their way out the door.
We were stunned, grateful, and amazed. When every dollar seemed to weigh more than it should have, this was a true gift.
Later we found out that the church minister for one of the young men had also been at Goodfellas that evening and had done for the four of them what the students did for us. He covered their bill as he was on the way out. The fact that these teenagers chose to “pay it forward” to us made it no less remarkable. Maybe even more so. They had money in their pocket that they were planning on spending. They had the chance to keep it all, but chose not to.
Since that time I have been the recipient of many, many gifts from students, parents, and community businesses and members. These gifts have helped to make teaching worthwhile even when the paycheck has fallen short of what we need. I am grateful for everything that has been done for me. However, none have touched my heart as deeply as when that waiter said to us “Your bill has been taken care of.” Thank you.
