Sorry man... But there are a few topics that will always bring out the 'chit' in me and threads about tipping or gifts are a couple of them....
Originally Posted by Whispers
I simply don't tip. I've had a couple of providers over the years actually refuse to see me because I didn't ... even though we hit it off.
For me, though, it's not about gratuity. It's about business. And the moment we lose sight of what this is, then the chit really hits the fan for everybody.
That's not to say I haven't lent a book or a CD or a DVD to a provider in the past. I have. I've played music for some of them and actually played duets with at least one provider... who was a fabulous musician besides being a fucking knockout! I've taken bottles of wine and rare, third-world liqueurs to sessions that we shared. That wasn't tipping. It was FUN and heightened the experience for both of us.
However, Whispers, I don't get pissed or aggressive about it. I'm not trying to take advantage of a gal and won't let her do it to me. I'm not trying to "GET SOME" when I know that a deal's already been made. I just don't even worry about somebody trying to get MORE out of me, as you put it, because it just isn't even part of my game.
So let the chit fall where it may... I think if you keep your perspective, you can be a nice guy and charming and still feel like a REAL MAN!