Rants and Raves

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So Sorry, Can I Buy You a Drink?

So Sorry, Can I Buy You a Drink?

What happened to that?

Tovah Feinberg's avatar
Tovah Feinberg
Jan 31, 2024
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Rants and Raves
Rants and Raves
So Sorry, Can I Buy You a Drink?
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I accidentally knocked over a friend’s entire drink recently and immediately exclaimed, “can I buy you one?” For me, that's common courtesy. But in actuality that etiquette seems long gone. Perhaps it’s because of the speed of which society now operates- and the inattentive nature that happens as a result. Or has it become a boomer thing? I dunno. All I do know is that when my Hennessy and Coke lands on the floor due to someone's clumsiness, I’m sad about the $15 dollars that’s about to get mopped. That is- off the floor, not in someone's pocket. And sadly, somehow that might be better?! Maybe, maybe not but I digress.

What the f*ck. If I’m at fault because I’m a klutz (which I so often am), I soak it up and correct the soggy situation. I recognize and am grateful that money in my pocket allows me to do so. The proper thing to do is remedy the scenario if you’re able to, no?! I’m talking about when the spilled drink is clearly the other party’s fault and they just shrug their shoulders giving oopsy daisy. Or sometimes they just keep walking; not even looking back after they body checked you. Malaise-y mess. That's what that's giving. Of course, not everyone can afford to buy a replacement. And it’s certainly no one’s business if that $15 was meant for your dinner. But in that case, just offer an acknowledgement and a sincere apology. Which is also perfectly fine. Because everyone makes mistakes.

Smashing a glass out of someone’s hand isn’t water- or a tequila soda- under the bridge. Nonchalantly wandering away is the equivalent of when people say, “I'm sorry you feel that way” rather than actually being sorry. Bullshittery and avoidance to the highest degree. The sentiment should be reserved for when you feel remorse and are apologizing for your actions. Not to pacify and graze over the issue at hand with zero accountability.

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