I had an expiring coupon for a free sandwich, so I stopped into the Chick-fil-A in Easley, SC. I placed my order and was given a receipt and my unsweet tea. Before I even reached the condiment counter a female employee came to me with my order and said, “I can take this to your seat if you would like me to.”

A few minutes later a manager stopped at the table in front of me where two seniors were sitting. He noticed they were finished and offered to take their tray and trash for them. They were in no rush to leave and were not pressured to do so.

I also noticed a younger male employee who evidently was just starting his shift. He came in the front door with a pleasant smile on his face. He greeted staff and patrons alike. I watched him deliver meals to tables and make brief polite conversation to all.

A group of three men in Chick-fil-A attire stood near the entrance. I assumed one may have been the manager and the others may have been upper level management. Even though they were engaged in conversation, they were quick to lend a hand the moment they saw a customer who appeared to need assistance.

If the world were a bit more like Chick-fil-A there would be more smiling faces and a greater willingness to help those in need. A good deed, a helping hand, and a kind word would become second nature to us. We can’t change the world, but we can make our little corner of the world a bit more like Chick-fil-A.

Growing up in a small Midwestern farming community was much like Chick-fil-A in word and deed. The world has changed since then. I am thankful for a corporate philosophy that is not afraid to serve a healthy portion of good old-fashioned customer service, kindness, a helping hand, and some very good food.

Thank you Chick-fil-A!

Stan Means
Elder Source Senior Ministries
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