The Seattle Times published an article about a cafe in Kirkland does not list any prices on their menu, nor does Terra Bite Lounge even hint at suggesting prices. They just put a metal box out on the counter and leave it up to the customer to drop in $1, $3, $5–or even nothing–for their purchase. In the article, the owner of Terra Bite is quoted saying that people are essentially good, but can be influenced by their environment. If people see good, they’ll be good. So far, according to the article, Terra Bite averages 80 customers per day, earning about $3 per transaction.

The reporter interviewed customers with positive comments who shared that they believe in what Terra Bite is doing, and would be willing to pay more–or at least what they would normally pay at Starbucks. On the other hand, I read comments on someone’s website about how this is an opportunity to abuse the honor system and receive free goodies. Some of the people who posted on the website even said they were going to bring all their friends there and take advantage of it. How true are those comments? Who knows. Sometimes people just like to be obnoxious when they can hide behind a keyboard and a screen name.

But I do believe that people who believe this is honorable and positive will be the ones visiting Terra Bite and putting in what they feel is a fair amount to cover their purchases. I wouldn’t say that people are “essentially good,” but I do believe that people WANT to do good, and are fueled by others who promote positive actions. In the nine months that I’ve lived here, I observed that Seattlelites are more conscious about pitching in and doing their part (for the most part). People seem more inclined to drop money into tip jars (from what I’ve noticed), and I have met so many people my age (outside of World Vision) who are involved in nonprofits or participate in some arena of social justice.

I do hope Terra Bite survives, as I know there are cynics out there who don’t believe in positive results of good intentions. I hope we can all prove them wrong.