Dear Urban Diplomat: Is it normal to bring a ring light to a restaurant?

Dear Urban Diplomat, I’m a server at a buzzy downtown restaurant, and it feels like diners are ruder than ever. Last week, a customer—an influencer type—brought out a huge ring light to take videos for social media. I told her she was disturbing other patrons and asked her to put it away. She said, and I quote, “I’m working, just like you are,” before grudgingly wrapping up. Entitled, right? If it happens again (and I know it will), am I correct to shut it down? —Shoot Me Now, Greenwood-Coxwell

As long as that light ended up back in her bag, it sounds like you handled it well. Her reply, while ridiculous, can’t be the worst you’ve heard in your line of work. Forgetting this incident is the best way to safeguard your sanity. And the next time someone brings out professional videography equipment, appeal to your status as the guardian of ambiance. Tell them that they’re killing the very vibe they’re trying to capture.