Holy Macarel

So everything is going to be OK now.....right?

I mean, Barack is Pres., Bush is out. Michelle's a hip first Lady, Biden hair transplant is still looking great...HAZZAH!!

Last night I went out to the bar to greet some guests and some of them were discussing the days events. The inauguration was impressive to say the least, a true historic event. I was choked up during the entire speech.

But that's where my opinion must end. You see, I am a business owner. I deal with the public. I have been and must remain impartial to any political view or stance. it's in the small business handbook. "Do not share political or religious views with customers or potential customers" Period. Makes sense right. Given how passionate folks are about their affiliation. It would be economical suicide to alienate myself from people who might want me to cook them a nice meal.

So there in the middle I stood. For 8 years. Always nodding, smiling, hand gesturing. Letting the customer rant while I place a plate of calamari in front of them. I knew my role and had no problem playing it.

Now, I don't want you to think that I am devoid of political opinion. Just the opposite. I have educated myself enough to pick a side. I have STRONG feelings about the issues. But they will remain inside, only to be discussed with my wife and certain close friends.

But...

Something happened last night. Something that changes the game a bit. One of the staunch conservatives that I visited at the bar last night told me something. He, and his wife, Are supporting Obama. Giving him every benefit of the doubt. Hoping that he succeeds in doing everything that he claims he will do. Because we need it. We...he said We... He didn't mean just he and his wife, he meant ALL of us. Democrats, republicans, independents, libertarians, agnostics....all of us. For sure he was right, We do need it. Everyone's in this boat together.

At that moment I felt like I could finally speak up. If these two people were willing to be open about change, maybe sharing my thoughts with folks wouldn't be such a bad thing anymore. Maybe things truly are changing. Well the time has come I thought. No more was I going to play the role f the diplomat. My head is heavy with thoughts and feelings about the presidency, the economy, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan... I gathered my thoughts, threw my kitchen towel over my shoulder, planted my feet firmly and looked them straight in the eye and said, "did you guys enjoy your veal tonight?"

Thud.

I couldn't do it. The bottom line is I am a diplomat. I always have been. It really has nothing to do with being a business owner. I have always avoided confrontation. I've never enjoyed arguing. Maybe that's why I've been somewhat successful as an owner. I put out the fires instead of fueling them. I'm like the Captain Kirk of the restaurant biz. My job as a Chef/owner is to provide an experience wherein the guest feels totally comfortable. Remember the phrase, "the customer's always right?" Well, that's my job. To make them feel right.

Am I happy about our new President? Come to the restaurant, order a drink, let me cook you tonight's special, and we'll discuss it....