As everyone in the newsroom (and my waistline) can attest, I'm a big fan of Taco Bell. When I come to work around 2 p.m., I've usually got my jacket and tie in one hand and my Taco Bell in the other. But after something I saw Tuesday, my admiration for the restaurant grew even more.
I was in the drive-through lane at the Taco Bell on 29th Street when the person in front of me stopped several feet short of the window. The lady, obviously distressed, jumped out of her car frantically searching for something in the back seat. My window was rolled down so I could hear her repeating to herself, "Where is my wallet?"
Soon she popped the trunk which revealed a recent trip to the grocery store. She continued to rummage through her grocery bags looking for her lost wallet. I asked her if I could help, but by this time she was very upset. As the cars began stacking up behind her, I could almost feel her frustration, having been there myself.
Finally she got back in her car and drove the few feet to the window. I heard her tell the Taco Bell cashier she'd misplaced her wallet and had no money for the food. That's when the cashier, a young female, told her not to worry and handed her the food. The appreciative lady promised she'd return with the money, and I bet she did.
I've always thought Taco Bell has some of the best commercials on TV. But the simple act of kindness I witnessed with my own eyes is one advertisement money can't buy.