Sebastian Junger, author of The Perfect Storm, crossed my path a couple of weeks ago. Apparently, he was in Milwaukee to promote his new book.
Although I didn’t have a chance to talk with him, I must admit I felt a little giddy upon seeing him. I am not a big fan of The Perfect Storm, but I greatly enjoy many of the magazine articles he’s written, especially a recent one in National Geographic Adventure.
In it, Junger describes a chance encounter with a homeless man on a lonely stretch of cold highway where he was hitchhiking. Under the impression that Junger didn’t have any food, the homeless man freely forked over his own boxed lunch.
It was a simple offering: bologna sandwich, apple, and chips, but it reminded Junger that appearances can be deceiving, that when traveling, respect for others is a valuable commodity and you shouldn’t hesitate to offer it freely.
It reminded me of the power of food and drink to put people on an even playing field. Food is the great equalizer; regardless of social status or ethnic background, everyone needs to eat.
It reminded me that hospitality does not depend upon the contents of your cupboards as much as it relies on the condition of your heart.
And if all I have are Ritz crackers and Cheez Whiz (or the locally favored cheese curds) to put out for my guests, then I should serve them up with a sincere heart and as much flair as I can muster. Because as much as I love to indulge in a fabulous meal, sometimes, the most simple things are what we need to feed the soul.
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