LogFAQs > #970687144

The concept of the phrase pay it forward is about doing a good turn to someone for a good turn done to you, not an obligation to pay for someone else's lunch

I would magine anyone doing it just wanted to be nice or were inspired by this chain; I don't hold it against anyone for not being able to go along with it. You're nice if you do, and super nice if you pay extra but going out to buy a cheeseburger shouldn't require someone to take part in all that. No shame in just being like "thanks" and not doing it also. Perhaps you can pay it forward the way that phrase meant, by helping an old lady across the street or something if you want to spread good vibes. It doesn't have to just be with fast food.