Paying it Forward Credits Everyone

(My school’s residence hall is going on a fast-food run. My friend is really hungry, but has no money to go, so I give him all my cash to pay for it, as I intend to pay by debit. Most of the group goes to one specific fast-food place, but I am dropped off first to pick up some Taco Bell.)

Cashier: “Cash only.”

Me: “Excuse me?”

Cashier: “I’m sorry, but the card machine is broken. We can only take cash at this time.”

(I turn around to see the bus driving off to the other fast-food place.)

Me: “Darn, I was really craving Taco Bell recently. Guess I’ll wait for the bus to get back.”

(The only other customer walks up to me.)

Customer: “Don’t worry. I’ll pay for you.”

Me: “No, it’s fine; I’ll get picked up and go somewhere else.”

Customer: “No, it’s fine; I’m paying for you. End of story.”

(Without hesitating, she pulls out her pocketbook, and pays as I order. When I see my friend, I tell him the story, and tell him he doesn’t owe me a penny.)