Moral Dilemma Options

[ThePaintedMan]

I've got a bit of an issue I'd like your opinion on. Awhile back I had to order my race suit, nomex, etc for a September race. The supplier bent over backwards to get me a good deal on the suit and get it shipped to me early enough to be able to try it out at a DE next week. She has been in communication with me and sent me the suit yesterday, so I should be all set. However, I never sent her payment. I fully intended to, but I think she was more worried about getting it out in time and never asked or sent me an invoice.

I need to say that I've lived my life in such a way that I never want to owe anyone anything when I leave this world. I've always paid my way and never asked for charity. Many people have reached out to help me, including many of you (thank you), over the years and refused payment even when I offered.

That being said, I am stretching my meager college budget to the limit with masters courses, an engagement, the 914 and my young-and-dumb racing dream. This suit is a significant investment for me, and needless to say, keeping that money in my pocket wouldn't hurt, fiancially speaking.

This supplier is, from what I understand, a small family business, which makes me feel even more guilty. I know that there are many of you who are in a similar situation. If a customer received goods from you and you didn't ask them for payment, how would you feel if they contacted you to let you know? Is the ball in my court on this one? Should I just wait to get the suit first, see what I think, and then contact her?

Thanks for your opinion!

-George