Big Difference
It was like night and day – and the staff couldn’t believe their eyes and the customers wondered if something bad had happened or was about to.
The uncomfortable situation that had unfolded less than 24-hours ago, ended up bringing a large group of police officers to their door.
Blazing Hot
Arizona was already hot this time of year, but the recent heat wave had turned many areas into sizzling furnaces.
So, for 18-year-old Andy Grenner, it was an extra blessing to work somewhere with air conditioning. It also brought in constant flow of customers and hopefully a few more tips to add to the college fund.
Long Lines
That particular Tuesday, he had lost track of how many iced lattes and fruit-blast blends he had made so far.
The shift wasn’t even to the half-way point and his apron was already sticky and smelling like someone had used it to deep-clean the coffee machine. But he had no idea that soon the messy uniform would be the least of his problems that day.
New Customer
The line had been relentless and the customers irritable with just about everything.
But the entire room took on a new air of discomfort when a towering, older man stepped into the coffee shop and took his place in the line – arms crossed and an intimidating, scowl on his face.
Smelling Bad
Andy could see anyone close to him shoot nervous glances and a few people scrunch or hold their nose like the guy was emanating an unpleasant smell.
His clothes were caked in dirt and white dust with a similar grunge on any exposed skin. A couple people even left their spot and walked out the door, probably to find another place that served cold drinks.
Manger's Anxiety
But it wasn’t just the customers that were clearly put on edge.
The new assistant manager was a 17-year-old girl that looked like she was about to faint at the prospect of dealing with her first real “problem” that didn’t involve a register override. Even the words “call the cops?” came out in a frightened whisper. When the man got to the counter, the awkward exchange began.
Fuss Over Nothing
“Three iced-mochas and one mango juice, please,” he said, pulling out a wade of crumpled cash.
The girl froze with wide eyes. Andy hid his own reaction – but not about the customer. The entire situation was ridiculous. The guy wasn’t causing trouble and just wanted some drinks. And with the oppressive heat, it wasn’t like every person came through the line smelling like fresh flowers.
Take It And Go
The assistant manager quickly grabbed some cup holders and shoved the order into a bag.
“We’re really busy today and don’t have free seats. You’ll have to take these and go,” she said, trying not to make eye contact. Andy couldn’t believe what he was hearing! He countered with, “It’s fine. There are lots of seats. You’re more than welcome to stay, sir.” The guy sighed grabbed the bag.
Tried Again
He ignored the manager and said to Andy, “Thanks, kid. I’ll be on my way. See you around.”
Andy tried again, “Really, sir. Please stay.” But the dusty, towering man just gave a small smile and left. Andy had no idea that the guy would retune the next day ... with friends.
New Person
However, when the guy stepped through the doors that Wednesday afternoon, it was like an entirely different person had walked through the door.
The transformation was so stark that the assistant manager didn’t connect the dots – even as she took his order with a bright, welcoming smile. The guy stood in his police uniform with the rest of his cop friends. He looked right at Andy.
Gratitude
“Thanks for your help yesterday,” he said.
“We were dying doing renovations in that heat.” It all finally made sense – at least to Andy. The poor assistant manager, however, dug herself into an even deeper hole when she put together the exact same order he had made the previous day ... and still not putting two and two together.
Helping A Friend
It turned out the group cops had banded together to help one of their own do some much-needed home repairs and yard work.
And in the hot Arizona sun, the dirt, drywall dust, and sweat made for a pretty potent combination that had offended many noses. Still, Andy was sure of one thing.
Basic Respect
It didn’t matter if the guys were in uniform or in overalls.
A customer was still a customer, and everyone deserved to be treated with respect and kindness, especially in these current times of turmoil. But Andy noticed the guy had handed over far too much money for the order, and he tried to hand it back.
Huge Tip!
“Keep it, kid.” Andy couldn’t believe it.
It was a hundred-dollar tip! Even the assistant manager’s eyes turned wide, and she tried to explain that all tips were pooled. The officer answered, “Nope, this is just for him for being so kind. Why would I tip you when you kicked me out yesterday?” The penny finally dropped.
Regular Spot
The girl turned red from head to toe, and Andy held back a laugh.
The officer added, “The drinks were great, so my buddies and I decided to make this a regular stop.” Andy shook his hand thanked him again put the large tip in his pocket with a huge smile.