This was my lunch today, at one of my favorite restaurants. I love the food at Chick-fil-A, and have always had a great experience at their restaurants. Today I ordered a #1 combo, with the Original Chicken Sandwich & Waffle Fries. I used a coupon from the Clarksville City Saver to get a free Hand-spun Peach Milkshake, which is their limited time flavor right now. Of course, I requested their special Chick-fil-A sauce, which I use on my sandwich and with my fries. So yummy! This meal definitely hit the spot.
There are many reasons why I love Chick-fil-A. Over the years, I have had friends who worked at our local Chick-fil-A, and remember them saying it was a great work environment. As a customer, I have always been treated respectfully, and seen employees and managers go above and beyond to create the best atmosphere possible. The quality of the service and the food is always impressive and consistent. I appreciate that they smile, and respond to my "thank you" by saying, "my pleasure". Good attitudes are a huge part of customer service, and they are definitely at the top of my list for fast food.
Another thing I appreciate about Chick-fil-A is the family friendly and kid friendly environment that they consistently present. Kids love eating chicken nuggets and playing in the playground area. It's a safe place to bring the whole family, and there's something for everyone. I have seen people from all different backgrounds in the restaurant, and they are treated with the same respect and speed of service. Businessmen and college students using the store's free Wi-Fi, young families with kids in baseball uniforms, local police officers, ands groups of high school friends sharing a meal after a small group bible study.
For the past two years, I have been hosting a live music night at our local Chick-fil-A of Madison Street in Clarksville, TN. In 2012, Music Night is held every second Monday of the month, from 6-8pm. I play guitar and sing original songs as dinner music for my fans and patrons in the restaurant. Chick-fil-A offers a sweet deal for anyone with a college ID, to receive a FREE Chicken Sandwich when they purchase Medium Waffle Fries & a Medium Drink, every Monday night from 5-10pm. Everyone is welcome, and we always have a great time! As an independent musician, I am grateful for the support they have for local music, and their willingness to invest in our community.
There has been some controversy lately spreading through social media, about what the founders of Chick-fil-A believe. Each store is independently owned and operated, and everyone has their own personal views. Even if people don't agree with the founder's stand for what constitutes a Biblical marriage and family, I don't think boycotting or protesting (and thereby depriving yourself of their amazing food) is going to help anybody. I see the founder's statement as consistent with how they have successfully and honestly built their business. I was not surprised to hear that they still stand for what they have always stood for, even when it's not popular or politically correct. I admire anyone who stands up for what is right, and for what they believe.
In closing, I hope that you will research for yourself what the other businesses you buy from stand for. You might be surprised to find out what your hard earned money is supporting when you buy from other companies. It's important to be informed, and to make decisions that will leave a positive impact on our world. Eat Mor Chikin.
While I completely respect your views on Chick-Fil-A and your experiences at your local restaurant, I think you missed what people are protesting about. Chick-Fil-A's founder did not just voice an opinion (which he has a right to do, unless it infringes on the rights of other Americans), but the company as a whole (not the individual stores) donates millions of dollars to organizations that are against gay marriage, equality, and women's rights.
ReplyDeleteAlso, you said, "I was not surprised to hear that they still stand for what they have always stood for, even when it's not popular or politically correct. I admire anyone who stands up for what is right, and for what they believe." Is it what is right or an opinion? He can voice his own opinion on gay marriage and family, but is his opinion "right?" Is he standing up for what is right in his (and your) mind - that two people, who happen to be of the same sex, who love each other exactly the same way any other two people do, who want a house and a family just like any other two people do, should not be allowed to get married? I think that is an opinion. One I do not share. But, what is "right" is loving everyone no matter what, not judging them, and respecting people's differences.
If there is a "right" then there is a "wrong," and I would hate to think that you are arguing that being gay, and/or gay marriage is wrong.
Eat at Chick-Fil-A if you chose, just as someone should be able to marry whom they chose.