08/06/2025
Just a reminder that kindness doesn’t take much.
The other night, my husband and I had dinner at Saltgrass — one of our usual spots. When you go somewhere often, you get to know the staff. But this time, our waiter didn’t have the same energy we’re used to.
He wasn’t rude, just… quiet. Detached. You could tell something was off.
It’s easy to tip based on service. Easier still to judge someone’s attitude. But how often do we stop and ask someone how they’re doing?
After he brought our salads, I simply said, “Hey, I don’t think we’ve met you yet. We eat here a lot — are you new?”
That one question opened the door. He told us he wasn’t new to Saltgrass, but he’d just moved to Tyler a few days ago — from San Antonio. My husband and I instantly remembered this feeling all too well after moving halfway across the country five years ago.
We asked what he thought of Tyler so far, and he said it’s smaller but the people have been really kind. You could tell he was missing home… what felt familiar and comfortable.
That short conversation changed the energy completely. He smiled more. He checked on us a little differently after that.
It was a small moment — but it’s a reminder for all of us that you never know what someone is walking through.
Sometimes, a simple “Hey, how are you?” is more powerful than we think.
If you see Luke at Saltgrass in Tyler, take a moment to welcome him to our big, little town!
Natalie & Jamie Taylor
