We were at dinner last night, me and my 8-year-old son. Our waiter was probably in his early 20s, clearly stressed, juggling way too many tables.

My son watched him for a while, then asked me dad, why is he doing all the work by himself? Where are the other helpers?

I explained they were probably short-staffed, happens a lot in restaurants. My son thought about it, then said that's not fair. He's working really hard and people are being mean to him.

He'd noticed a couple at another table being rude about their order taking too long.

When the waiter came back, my son looked up at him and said you're doing a really good job. I think you're the best waiter here.

The waiter stopped, crouched down to my son's level, and said thank you, buddy. You just made my whole night better.

I tipped 40% and when we left, my son asked if the waiter would get that money. I said yes. He said good. He deserves it because he was nice even when he was tired.

I've been trying to teach my kid about kindness and empathy, but sometimes you don't know if it's actually sinking in. Last night I realized it is.