In a time of great suffering for the Polish people, Ryan Arey opened his heart and his wallet to one Ilyana, a waitress at the Ridgewood Diner. 

At a small ceremony held at the meal’s check signing, Ryan addressed the diner’s customers:

“The tragic loss of your president and top government officials shows we Americans what's really important about life. We are constantly wrapped up in our own lives.  In our thoughtless pursuit of wealth and attention, we rarely ask if there is a way to help others, that would allow us to feel better about ourselves.  It is with this spirit in mind that I, on behalf of the American people, present you, Ilyana, with this generous 18% gratuity.  This contribution is made in spite of the cold coffee, and you missing a front tooth.

“Furthermore, the table urges you to pocket the tip so you won’t have to split it with the Mexican busboys.  Unless Mexico has had an earthquake or something.  I don’t believe they have.”

Ryan published numerous accounts of his generosity on his website, blog, facebook, and twitter.