One woman in New York City got a big surprise when the kind and generous customers she waited on left her a massive $500 tip.

Kindness can take many different shapes and forms. Whether it be an unexpected word of encouragement, a simple gesture like holding the door for someone or a friendly wave or head nod, that kindness can brighten someone’s day, week or year. 

However, some people may be able to unexpectedly bless others financially. Clair Howell, a waitress in a Manhattan restaurant, was on the receiving end of a $500 tip, according to a video posted on YouTube.

The tip, as the video explains, came on a bill of $232. Clair, in an interview explaining her unexpected and large tip, was beaming.

“I’m just, like, in total shock,” Clair said. “Like, like what? And I’m looking around, and they’re gone, totally gone.”

But the $500 tip wasn’t the only thing written on the bill. The customers had written a message for Clair. It was directions on how she was supposed to spend the $500. 

“GO SEE MERRILLY!” the note read. “SIT IN THE ORCHESTRA!”

Clair said that during the meal, she talked to the customers and asked about their plans. She asked them if they were taking in one of the plays on Broadway. 

They were, in fact, headed to a Broadway play. They were seeing “Merrily We Roll Along.”

Clair, following the directions given to her by the generous customers, went online and bought a ticket to the show that night. The tip covered the price of the ticket and then some. 

Instead of using the money elsewhere, Clair said that she felt she had to follow the guidance from the customers and buy herself a ticket to the show.

There are still kind, generous and thoughtful people in the world. Most, like those who tipped Claire, don’t seek recognition for their kindness either. 

Ephesians 4:32 “And be kind to one another, full of pity, having forgiveness for one another, even as God in Christ had forgiveness for you.”