Dear Faithmate Ethics Advisor,
What is the proper etiquette for picking up the check when you have dinner with a friend who doesn’t have much money? I do quite well for myself and like to go to expensive restaurants. One of my close friends doesn’t have much money, so I feel pressure to pay for her when we go out. Should I pick up the whole check, or is she expected to pay her way?
As a Christian, what would you do and why?
Faithmate’s Ethics Advisor says…
You have two options, both of which are acceptable from an etiquette perspective. Option one is to let your friend choose the restaurant (no complaints!) and pay her own way; this allows her to select something in a price range she is comfortable with. Option two, which you might take advantage of on occasion, is for you to select the spot…and take care of the tab. Because, no, you aren’t expected to consistently pay for a friend who makes less money. But on the other hand, your pal shouldn’t have to break her budget to eat at a pricy place of your choosing.
Of course, this is just one opinion! As a Christian, do you agree or disagree? Post your comments below…
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