I wish I was more like the superstar guys I see in social media. I’m sure their beautiful wives drive Mercedes Benz SUVs on their way to mid-day yoga classes or tennis matches. And I’m sure these guys have big, roomy offices with lots of windows and black leather couches around shiny black tables. That they wear their dress shirts unbuttoned just enough to look like a pirate – but no one says shit to them about this because Pirate Boss also wears a big platinum watch that they’d take off and bludgeon you with if you did. For lunch, these guys fly to other cities and inspire people just by showing up. Sometimes they even circle the airport and wave to the crowd as they’re leaving. They’re heroes, these guys. Pillars of hope. I know that one day if I play my cards right? And say all the right things? And get my teeth bleached? And work really hard? I can be like them too, and send my children to the best private schools that money can buy – and surround myself with hot female assistants who smell like cinnamon.
But until then, I’ll just sit in my wife’s old car typing away while my kid practices in worn cleats on the lighted soccer field in front of me.
***
Vincent Ammirato
Nov 3, 2011
And when you’ve run the course and the kids are out of the home, you’ll look at the strong family bonds you’ve fostered in lieu of a giant career, car, and house. I don’t think I even need to comment on which one is worth more.
No Jim, in my humble opinion, you’re right where you need to be: inspiring the people that matter to you on topics that matter to you.
Nichole
Nov 3, 2011
Their ‘superstar” status is fleeting and ego-driven while your “super dad” status is forever and true.
Dennis
Nov 3, 2011
I struggle with the same thing. Do I pursue the fun, interesting things that would most likely be more fulfilling or do I chase the jet set life?
I feel like I wouldn’t be good at that tycoon style living but for some reason it sticks in the back of my head that I should be.
Kelly
Nov 3, 2011
You always hit the nail on the head. It took me a while to realize that for myself!
Greg
Nov 6, 2011
My only concern is your description of “hot female assistants who smell like cinnamon.”?
I’m thinking Chanel # 5 but other than that as always appreciate your dead on writing –
How do we get off this F’ing merry go round?
Best
g