72-year-old waitress stands up to customer who called her 'rude'

I am Esther, a 72-year-old waitress at a small-town Texas diner for over twenty years. Most customers are kind, some are rushed, and a few are grumpy. Last Friday, a woman was disrespectful towards me, unlike most guests who treat me with basic respect.

The diner holds sentimental value as it became my anchor after my husband, Joe, passed away. We met there in 1981, and it played a significant role in our relationship. During a busy lunch rush last Friday, a young woman filmed herself criticizing her meal in my section, refusing to pay her bill.

Instead of panicking, I remained composed, corrected minor issues politely, and maintained a smile. After half an hour of her complaints, I, along with another server, calmly followed her through various places until she paid her bill. The diner staff cheered upon our return.

Respect is a key value at the diner, and age has taught me to stand my ground firmly. Despite being 72, I know how to assert myself and protect what is rightfully mine, always doing so with a smile on my face.