To everyone who plans on going out to eat when restaurants reopen for dine-in service, please remember to be kind. I know that sounds like such a simple and common-sense thing, but there is a reason I feel the need to mention it.

I, like a lot of people, worked in a restaurant at one point in my life. There were days that we were so busy and “in the weeds.” And yet, there were always those diners who demonstrated their patience with me while they waited a little longer for their food because the kitchen was backed up.

However, I never had to worry about a pandemic as a waitress. Social distancing guidelines will play a role in how restaurants conduct daily business. There will be new and strange rules that we have to follow when we try to go out to eat again. The restaurant owners and their employees will all work hard to adapt and ensure your health, safety, and overall satisfaction with your dining experience beyond what they’ve ever done before COVID-19 happened.

So, when you make your reservation and show up to your favorite spot for the first time in over two months, please understand that everyone is literally going through the same thing. It is going to take some getting used to. They are going to have to work out the kinks. They are just trying their best. There is no need to be rude, complain about the changes, or take your own frustrations out on some poor, unsuspecting soul.

Please appreciate their efforts during this very weird time. Treat your server with respect and then tip him or her appropriately. I know most of you will do this regardless but go out of your way to show kindness and understanding. You will not regret it.

READ MORE: Inspiring Stories From the Coronavirus Pandemic

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