Did You Lose Your Job?

This seems to be the most frequently asked question. It’s unfortunate to think the only time its acceptable to make big changes in life is when someone has lost their job. At about the same time I made the decision to take on this challenge,I was at the top of my game working for a successful and high profile company and even enjoyed a terrific relationship with my boss who is also a very close friend.  

What Inspired You To Do This?

Well…that is a tough one to  pinpoint or articulate. There was no singular event  or individual that motivated me, but rather a perfect storm of events that lead to a couple of ’near life experiences’.  A bartender named Doc Hendley, a community juggernaut named Astrid Kent,Master Dhyan Vimal, a contingency of Auzzie’s, my good friend Jackie Dumaine, my Grandma and my Dad; were all sources of inspiration. These people and the two years I spent living in Whistler all lead to my decision to get off my butt and to try to do some good. More than anything though…it was the advice that my mom passed along that motivates me. (Quote at top of page)

There are a lot of long winded stories, personal anecdotes and epiphanies wrapped up in all this but I will save those for later.

How Are You Going to Pay for All of This?

This is the question I most often ask myself! I have given away all of my possessions, opted out on a great career opportunity and by no means am I independently wealthy! In fact, this will definitely be a struggle to make it all happen.  I am relying on my resume, work ethic and social networking to aid me in making all of this a reality – that and I am banking on a lot of goodwill, generosity and hospitality from others.

I do intend to earn my keep throughout this entire adventure. I have a great track record of success in the hospitality industry and a respectable resume so hopefully that opens some doors along the way. I also have an untiring work ethic so am committed to doing whatever it takes to get by and make it from one destination to the next.I have the expertise to be of value to almost any operator in the hospitality/service industry but am more than willing to work dish pit, prep or bar back if it means it helps to get from point A to point B and enables me to do some good. Whatever it takes is the rule of thumb here.

If you know of anyone in the hospitality game that needs a little assistance, know of a project that I can participate in and know of anyone with a comfy couch, don’t be afraid to make the connections. Wink, wink, nudge, nudge.

Did You Really Give Away All of Your Possessions?

Yes! I just felt that someone else would find more value in them than I did. To me it was just ‘stuff’ but realized that to those less fortunate it had significance above and beyond its material worth. To see the smile it brought to people’s faces was way more precious that any associated monetary value.

How Long Do You Plan to Do This?

I honestly have no idea. Who knows…it might just work out that this is a chapter that occupies the next 30 years of my life. I have absolutely no clue as to what is in store or what I am getting myself into. Mentally, I have prepared for an approximate 5 year journey.

How Do You Decide Where  You Are  Going Next?

Again, I don’t have a great deal planned out and definitely entering unchartered waters. I am starting out with familiar places but am completely open and willing to go in any direction. It’s less about the destination and more about what I can accomplish when I arrive. I have invitations from friends all over the globe and hoping that list will continue to grow. I have high hopes that through this site and social networking that invitations and opportunities will start to roll in.

Which Organizations or Charities Do You Support?

For me its less about any specific organization or charity than it is about individuals and community. I think any enterprise that is giving back to the community is a meaningful endeavor, however, for me it is all about keeping it small and making a noticeable difference. If it brings a smile to one person’s face 0r makes a positive change in one community, than I will consider it to have been a successful undertaking. In my hospitality career I have been fortunate to have participated in a myriad of projects supporting countless different worthwhile causes…if it makes a difference then it is was worth the effort and I will feel fortunate to have participated.

Aren’t You A Little Old To Be Doing This?

Probably…that’s what everyone keeps telling me, but I am not going to let it be a deterrent. As anyone who has worked in the hospitality industry knows, hard work, long hours and stress are part of the daily routine. I am hoping the skills sets I have acquired in the trade will help me succeed in this endeavor.

We will see…ask me again in 3-4 years.

Are You Religious or looking to ‘Find God’ or something?

Naw…this undertaking is not motivated by, or in support of, any religious or political agenda or to endorse any specific cause. Its nothing more than venturing out and hoping to make a difference. As I like to say… “I am not looking to find god but rather find some good in the world.”