Tipped off!

Dear JimmyDo

Should I feel cheap because I don’t tip at Starbuck’s or Caribou when I’ve just paid nearly $4.00 for my coffee?

Tipped Off!

Dear Tipped Off,

I've seen those "tip" jars as well. They have the word "tip" written somewhere around the cup. And there is all this money in them! It seems to me that when people put money in the jar they are saying, "Damn! I have too much left!"

Back to the question about being cheap. JimmyDo asks you...where is it written that when you see the word "tip" it ALWAYS refers to money? The dictionary has several definitions for the word "tip" Also, when you see the word "tip", you must determine if it is meant to be a noun or a verb.

If it is a noun, there are two possible definitions. First, it could be "a sum of money given to someone as a reward for their services". The other definition for a noun is a "small but useful piece of practical advice." If this is what is meant by the word "tip", JimmyDo tips ALL the time. In fact JimmyDo is giving YOU a tip right now

If you decide that it is a noun, and you do not want to give money, gesture to the employee to lean across the counter and whisper in their ear something that is amiss about their appearance. You may say "you may want to get your hair cut so I can see your eyes", or "your piercing is infected", or "you may want to wear a top that didn't show your bra strap". These helpful tips will make for improved employee appearance and JimmyDo believes that they will appreciate the insight.

If you don't feel comfortable verbally giving them a tip, JimmyDo recommends saving the fortunes from fortune cookies when you eat Chinese food. If others don't value their fortunes, collect them as well. That way you will have plenty of "tips" when you get your very overpriced coffee. When the coffee shop employees count the money at the end of the shift, what a treat it will be for them to find fortunes that you lovingly dropped in the jar. If you feel like you want to give them just a little bit more, write the words "in bed" at the end of each fortune you submit. That will give them a chuckle.

If you decide that the word is actually meant to be a verb, which means to "overbalance or cause to overbalance as to fall or to turn over", you may decide that the word "tip" is actually a request to play a game with them. "Tip" the cup over and watch them scramble to pick up the money. And who doesn't like to play a game!

So you don't have to feel cheap! Improved social relationships at the coffee house are just a "tip" away!

JimmyDo