
He wipes all the tables himself and offers to take people's trays to the trash when they're done (by the way, no waiters or waitresses here).
He asks how I like my lunch and listens to me when I answer.
He thanks me for eating here while I'm still enjoying my meal.
I can hear him strike up similar conversations with other customers, none of which sound formulaic or forced.
He remembers my face from a previous visit and thanks me for the return patronage.
He is persistently and naturally upbeat in his demeanor and attitude. It is obvious he loves what he does and is passionate about it.
Someone behind me spills a cup of ice and lets him know. He's there to clean it up in a flash and thanks the person for helping him do the job he's there for.
I get up to leave and he thanks me again for coming. This time I get a quick pat on the shoulder.
He tells me he hopes to see me again. I tell him I plan on it.
And as I walk out the door I think to myself, Yep, I'll be back, but not just for the good food. This is Charlotte; I've got food choices galore. I'll be back because the good food is coupled with someone who treats me like more than a customer, more than a means to an end. What he is about is about something so much more than just me.
Church, are we paying attention? If not, I'm thinking we should.