Some luncheons fill your plate, others fill your heart. This one did both.
This luncheon wasn’t just about good food — it became a story that will stay with us, long after this cruise is over.
What made it so special wasn’t just that it happened on a beautiful cruise. Rather, it was the unexpected moment of realizing that genuine character and solid principles still exist—traits that spark something in others and remind us to keep the good rolling, even in today’s fast-paced, often transactional world.
To cruise is already a fun experience in itself, especially with the ocean view. The sight of a moon glade dancing across the open waters, or the dramatic setting of the sun while dining, elevates the whole experience. However, during this particular meal, it was the dessert—and the heart behind the service—that truly moved us
Now here it goes...
A few days earlier, while on this cruise, I had discovered a kiosk aboard the dining hall brimming with curated confections. Like a child in a candy shop (but with better manners), I mentally noted every delicate tart and mousse that I liked the most. No kidding, this is why I had my heart set on enjoying them again.
So, I made my way over, ready to indulge... but no, the kiosk was empty!
Yup. Empty. Not a crumb in sight. I tried to keep my disappointment subtle, but inside, I was a little heartbroken.
I walked back to the table, wondering where the desserts had gone. Surely, it couldn’t be possible that no desserts would be served. One thing for sure, dessert-less day is not a day I signed up for.
I love desserts. Maybe a little too much, this is why when I spotted a server nearby, I didn’t hesitate. I asked if no desserts were being served that day.
Hey, they say that if you don't gain five pounds getting on a cruise, you did it wrong! A-ha-ha!
He smiled and explained that the desserts had simply been moved to the other side of the dining hall. What a relief! Whew!
Sweet tooth intact. I said to myself, I'd finish my plate then locate the dessert section.
Now here is where the story continues...
Something unexpected happened. Just a few minutes later, that same server returned — with a tray of desserts in hand. Perhaps, it was such a simple act, but it meant so much to us because he went out of his way, with no prompting, and all just to make sure we were cared for.
He managed to have a brief, heartfelt chat with me and my husband. He shared that he’s from the Philippines, too, and spoke with gratitude about his job on the cruise line and the opportunity to travel and support his family. He shared all this with gratitude in his tone. He even shared his upcoming plans. 😊
At the end of our meal, I spotted him again. Though I had already prepaid the gratuities for our trip — so carrying cash for tipping wasn’t something I had to worry about — this moment felt different. It was one that called for an expression of appreciation, best shown through an extra tip.
So there I was, discreetlyI reached into my purse for some cash. However, before I could hand it to him, he gently declined. My jaws nearly dropped.
He told us, “I don’t want the service I give to depend on the tips I might receive.”
Now, that stopped me in my tracks. In an industry where tips are often the fuel behind every smile and every refill, here was someone whose service was driven by character, not compensation.
It’s rare. And it’s refreshing.
There’s a lesson in this—a quiet reminder that sometimes the most meaningful part of a luxury experience isn’t what you eat, or even where you are, but the way it opens your eyes to the goodness in humanity.
It reminded me of old-fashioned values like doing your job well, taking pride in the work, and serving others not for what you can get out of it, but simply because it’s the right thing to do. It's who you are, and whose you are.
Yes, the desserts were divine. But it was the heart behind the service that left the sweetest impression of all.
Now is your turn to share your stories ingrained with a heavenly touch. Shoot me a message, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Many Blessings!
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