How spicy is spicy?

After a long day at work, an appointment, and a yoga class, I have time to kill while waiting to meet with the guy who books bands for my fledgling production venture. Tired and hungry, I go to a Thai restaurant nearby.

I order chicken and string beans and ask for it a little spicy. It comes out perfect, not 3-alarm fire, but definitely has a kick. I'm done and look at the check. VERY Mild??! Really? They could have at least said "mild" or maybe "light spice" or even "American spicy" but, "VERY mild?" AND, if that was "VERY mild" what is "VERY spicy"?!???