Starbucks Debate: Did They Do The Right Thing?
A Starbucks barista started a debate by something they did, and I’m curious to see where you stand.
The story goes …
A young woman was hunkered down at a table at a Starbucks when she was approached by a man. The workers in Starbucks seemed a little concerned. Why? Well, the man became more and more animated, and they got the impression the teen did not want the attention.
What would you do?
The mom telling the story on X (formerly Twitter) applauds the quick thinking staff for their actions. One of the baristas quickly put together a hot chocolate and brought it to the young woman. She explained that it was an extra. A nice gesture! But it is what they wrote on the cup that made the difference. Toward the bottom of the cup, on the side facing the young woman, it said:
Are you okay? Do you want us to intervene?
If you do, take the lid off the cup.
I have chills.
The post explains that the young woman did feel safe and did not remove the lid, but the parent writing the story was incredibly grateful for the gesture. And I’m glad the story was shared, so others can do something if they find themselves in a similar situation.
This gave me goosebumps.
— CALL TO ACTIVISM (@CalltoActivism) October 15, 2023
“My 18-year-old daughter was at Starbucks, alone, the other night.
A man came up to her and started talking to her.
A barista handed her “an extra hot chocolate someone forgot to pick up.”
How grateful I am for people who look out for other… pic.twitter.com/ymMIHuno9g
The Starbucks Debate
So, what could possibly be wrong with some strangers looking out for a girl they thought was in danger? According to some comments, like this one from Phil Labonte,
And some people wonder why so many young men have never approached a woman.
And some people wonder why so many young men have never approached a woman. https://t.co/ttja2q6ss0
— Phil Labonte, Talent Terrorist (@philthatremains) October 17, 2023
What do you think? Did the workers go too far? Was the man who approached the young woman out of line? If you are a man, are you intimidated to approach someone of interest because you are afraid something like this will happen to you? Is this deserving of a Starbucks debate? Did they overstep their bounds? Or was it simply a kind gesture?
Holiday Dating Do's and Don'ts
Don't Move Too Fast
If you’re started dating someone you really like, it might be temping to bring them to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. But, that could also freak them out. I remember going out with someone just once and getting invited to a holiday dinner. It made me a little uncomfortable, because even if I liked that person, it seemed like a big jump. So, if you do want to invite that new love to a holiday family event, make sure to talk it over with them and give them the option to say no.
This young couple is totally surprised by moving too fast.
Don't Go Crazy on Gifts If You're in a New Relationship
If you’re in a newer relationship, resist the temptation to buy your new love too much for Christmas. “Oh, he’s a Packers fan! I’m going to buy all the Packers gear I can find!” Just don’t do it. It’s okay to give gifts, but keep it small if you haven’t been together long, or you might look insane.
This young woman is spending too much on her new love.
Do Give Small, Meaningful Gifts
If you’re in a new relationship, you should get something for your new partner during the holidays. But, as mentioned above, don’t overdo it. A small, meaningful gift will likely be welcomed during the holidays and not scare your new love away.
This small gift is perfect for the holidays.
Don't Freak Out If You Don't See Your New Love As Much During the Holidays
Maybe you’re used to seeing your new love a few times a week. What if that’s just once a week, or less, during the holidays? Don’t freak out or start crying or anything. The holidays are a busy time for all, and that means schedules change.
This couple is fighting over missing dates over the holidays.
Do Be on Good Behavior at Holiday Parties with Your New Love
You might get invited to some fun holiday parties or work parties by your new love, and you might want to invite them to yours. That’s fine and much less pressure than a family event. But, be on good behavior. Don’t try to be the life of the party or anything, as you might mortify your date. Sometimes, people like to overdo it in the early stages and try to really impress, but you really just need to be yourself when meeting new friends and chill out a bit.
This couple is enjoying themselves at a holiday party.
