Jerseyans have long debated whether we should be allowed to pump our own gas.
This is rarely discussed: Does the person pumping our gas deserve a tip?
The question hit me smack in the face when I rolled down my window around 7 a.m. on
Saturday, looking to fill up before the big storm came in, and got a big blast of arctic air.
The wind chill at the time was in the negative numbers, making it one of the few times I
didn’t mind getting to stay in my car during a fill-up.
As I saw someone working six pumps at a time, bundled up in layers in an outfit that
seemingly came straight out of that scene in ‘A Christmas Story,’ I reached into my
wallet for a $5.
As my dad used to preach to me: This person was actually working for a living. And if
they were working on a Saturday, he would say, don’t assume they took a different day
off during the week.
So, I went home and quickly wrote a story about Mary Heredia, whose responses during
a 30-second on-the-spot interview will warm your heart.
Now, regular readers know I grew up in the restaurant businesses. So, I understand
firsthand how much tips can matter.
That being said, even I am annoyed by the new constant pressure to tip everyone for
everything. I don’t.
Not everyone deserves a tip. But when you’re out pumping gas in below-zero wind chill,
you deserve some appreciation.
Apparently, I’m not the only one who feels that way.
The story did terrific traction on social media all weekend. So many of you agreed with
the premise. One person said they do it on every stop. Others offered these takes.
“A little kindness goes a long way,” wrote one.
“A tip can change someone’s day,” wrote another.
There were a few calls to action, too.
“I just reminded my kids to tip when they get gas,” wrote one.
“Let’s go, Jersey! Show your appreciation for those who make us glad to live in the
Garden State!” wrote another.
Which brings it back to your next stop at the pump.
I’m not advocating to tip for every trip to the gas station. But if someone’s serving you in
dangerously cold weather — as it will be all week — perhaps show your appreciation for
the ability to sit inside a warm car.
