When I wait tables, the room belongs to me

[Robb]

I'm reminiscing here a bit, looking back during the autumn of my career as a waiter, training my replacement, etc. Here's a thought I shared with her:

When I'm waiting tables, I have complete control over the room. There sit customers whose evenings are in my hands. How much they enjoy their dinner, their whole experience, rests with me. Whether it's a smooth, perfect run through the various courses -- whether their order is right, whether I have insight on their options, suggestions for wine, whether I know a thing or two about town -- it all is up to me.

And I take pride, actually become happy when things go well. I enjoy the hour of pleasure and comfort I can provide. I like sharing my enthusiasm for the work my chef does, how much of a treat it is he shares his gift with those who come in.

I guess where I'm going with this is the following: no matter how seemingly trivial your job, how little you make, you have an opportunity to become proprietary, and take pride in it. Find some comfort in the simple pleasure of doing something well.

[supernova]

1. So true, Robb

There used to be a theatre saying. "There are no small parts; just small actors."

Your job is what you make of it. :D

Hey, you could wait my table anyday! I'm a great tipper!

[THUNDER HANDS]

2. I appreciate your enthusiasm

But I would much rather not work another day in my life. Anyone know a good beach that needs a hermit?

:evilgrin:

[GAspnes]

3. I used to get the same feeling

it's like being fully aware of everything in the room and the kitchen, everyone's state of mind, the progress of their meals, the intangible knowing when someone is done and appearing, at that moment, by his or her right side.

It's an amazing feeling (and a rare one in most jobs) to have complete control of the environment. Some times I miss it.

[WhoCountsTheVotes]

4. I was fired from many waitering jobs

I have a hard time pretending to be nice to people, let's just say I don't have a "winning personality" - had more fun as a dishwasher.

[StopTheMorans]

5. I was fired from my only waitering job 8 months

ago for falling over with a tray of 4 martinis, and laying on the floor laughing. I think that my manager didn't like me (or it could have been the dollar beer special between shifts where I drank 15 beers on a bet to see if I would get fired, I don't know:)

[WhoCountsTheVotes]

6. So you mean you won the bet?

15 huh?