Being Clark Kent

A good bartender is more than just a purveyor of fine spirits.  In my time behind the bar, I have also been a confidant, counselor, sports analyst, financial advisor (yikes!), and even a philosopher.  In that vein, I climb up on my soapbox today and comment about something I see far too often.  Like today's title character, too many of us go through each day quietly blending in with the scenery.  We go to work, do our job, and go home, but how many of us can actually say we feel more fulfilled by how we have spent our day?  I know, it's called "work" for a reason, but it doesn't have to be this way. 

Lately, I have seen this problem in my own life.  Don't get me wrong- most of the time, my job isn't so bad.  I like my co-workers, and I enjoy working cases.  The problem is that I feel like I'm just going through the motions.  Put me behind the bar or in the kitchen, however, and it's like stepping out of the phone booth.  All of a sudden, I can do anything.  I remember one restaurant job where I was the bartender, server, manager, and cook all at one time.  I thrived on the pressure and loved every minute of it.  It makes me ask myself- do I want to keep being Clark Kent, which may not be very exciting, but is familiar and comfortable, or do I want to take a shot at being Superman, even though the risk may be great?

It's a little easier for me, since I've already figured out HOW to be Superman, I just need to have the courage to jump off the ledge and go do it.  I think all of us have that potential though, and I challenge everyone to go find whatever makes you Superman.  If you already know what that is, embrace it instead of ignoring it.  If you already did THAT, please let me know your secret!

Hope you all enjoyed today's food for thought- with a good beer in hand of course!