"That's a unique name," Ethan Wargo told a woman who greeted him. "I like the color of your shoes," he complimented another passerby.
Wargo started his "free compliment stand" in mid-July in front of his family's home in Sycamore, Illinois, and spends up to five hours a day there. When someone approaches, Wargo engages them in conversation and offers 1-2 compliments.
"Talking to people is my favorite social activity," he told local media.
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Ethan Wargo at his "compliment stand" in front of his home in Sycamore, Illinois. Photo: WP |
Ethan Wargo at his "compliment stand" in front of his home in Sycamore, Illinois. Photo: WP
Wargo's idea stemmed from a comic book he recently read, featuring a character who ran an "insult stand," calling people silly names. He decided to flip the concept, creating a "compliment stand" instead.
Wargo then made a sign that read "free compliments" and set up his stand next to his twin sister Claire's art stand.
He believes charging for compliments is unreasonable. "I don't want people to have to pay to feel happy. Paying for something like that is silly," Wargo explained.
Neighbors quickly noticed Wargo's stand, and he now enjoys a steady stream of visitors each day.
"When I got my first customer, I thought I should keep doing this. Almost a month has passed, and it's still going great," Wargo shared, adding that he has complimented at least 60 people.
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Wargo's "compliment stand" next to his twin sister Claire's art stand. Photo: WP |
Wargo's "compliment stand" next to his twin sister Claire's art stand. Photo: WP
Wargo asks each visitor to tell him about themselves and their day so he can offer a personalized compliment.
Rainbow Kaelin, a neighbor, was driving home on 14/7 when she saw Wargo's stand and pulled over.
"I saw the 'free compliments' sign and smiled. I thought it was wonderful and sweet," Kaelin said.
Wargo asked about Kaelin's day. She explained she was training a new employee at work. "I hope that employee learns a lot from you; I hope everything goes well," Wargo responded.
Kaelin thanked him and drove off. Wargo, seemingly feeling he hadn't complimented her enough, ran after her car and added, "That's a unique name."
"He genuinely wants to make people's day brighter. To sit out there just to give kindness, goodness, and joy. He really warmed my heart," Kaelin remarked.
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Wargo greets and compliments visitors to his stand. Photo: WP |
Wargo greets and compliments visitors to his stand. Photo: WP
She decided to leave Wargo a small tip, as have many other visitors. Wargo and Claire recently pooled their earnings, about 120 USD, to buy a mini-fridge for their bedroom.
"People sometimes tip me and always say thank you. It's nice to be appreciated," Wargo said.
After almost a month, Wargo has several regular customers. One neighbor has even returned four times.
On the neighbor's first visit, Wargo encouraged him as he was worried about a new job. "You shouldn't worry too much. You can do it," Wargo told him.
The boy plans to keep his stand open through the end of summer. "I want to spread kindness and make people smile. When people are happy, I feel happy too."
Duc Trung (Washington Post)
