Sometimes, you hear stories about rude notes left on receipts that make you lose faith in humanity. But every now and then, a story comes along that reminds you of the kindness people are capable of. This is one of those stories.
At a Buffalo Wild Wings in Tacoma, Washington, a server named Brian Avey was having what seemed like an ordinary day. That is until he met a woman who placed an unusual order that left him puzzled and, ultimately, deeply moved.
The woman, dining alone, ordered a sandwich and two beers: a Corona and a Blue Moon. Brian, following restaurant policy, politely explained that he could only serve one beer at a time.
Then, she told him something that made him pause.
The second beer wasn’t for her. It was for her brother, who had died serving in Iraq. She wasn’t planning to drink it; it was her way of honoring his memory—a symbolic gesture of respect and love.
Brian shared what happened on social media:
“I told her she could only do one beer at a time. She said the Corona was for her brother who died in Iraq. It just sat next to her at an empty seat her entire lunch. When I brought her bill, I told her Buffalo Wild Wings will be buying that beer.”The woman was visibly touched by Brian’s kindness. Before leaving, she wrote a heartfelt note on the receipt:
“Thank you. An act of kindness goes a long way. It means a lot to me. Have a great rest of your day.”She signed it “Grateful Soldiers,” a nod not only to her brother but to all the soldiers who had served alongside him.
When she finished her meal, the untouched beer still sat on the table. Brian couldn’t bear to simply pour it down the sink. Instead, he decided to place it ceremoniously next to the cooler, alongside an American flag, as a tribute to her fallen brother.
Brian’s boss fully supported the idea, even suggesting they change the lime garnish daily to keep the tribute fresh.
This small act of kindness, born from an unusual beer order, became a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many and the compassion we can show in return.
Sometimes, it’s the smallest gestures that carry the most meaning.
If this story moved you, share it with your friends and remind them: a little kindness can go a long, long way.
