As many of you know, a little over two and a half years ago I began a brief stint in the hospitality industry. I jumped into hotel culture in hopes of perfecting my customer relation skills and opening up opportunities for me to connect with different people from all across the globe. Though tucked away and often only heard as a voice, I had the chance to assist, converse, and guide people from many walks of life.
It is a hard industry, and I will not deny that it takes a toll on your psyche. Sold out nights are chaotic and exhilarating, nights where you’re short staffed, not so much, but the show always goes on and you do everything in your power to put a smile on your face and present yourself with grace.
It was during this time that my love for Anthony Bourdain became much more profound. After a long evening shift I would often settle onto my parents couch with a glass of wine and binge a couple episodes of “Parts Unknown,” often until 2:00 or 3:00am. It was my opportunity to continue learning about a world I knew so little about.
He opened doors and broke down barriers. He ate delicious and exotic food and had conversations with people that I can only dream of meeting! He was honest. He was raw. He was authentic. And he often encouraged people to be as true to themselves as possible. I think it was his ability to be so unapologetically himself that put so many people he met at ease. Hell, I was at ease talking to him through my television, and he couldn’t even hear me.
It has taken me a couple days to process what has happened to this visionary individual. He not only inspired my passion as a closeted chef, but also continued to drive me to be a better writer. I realized after a couple months that hospitality unfortunately wasn’t my true calling in life, but I do use my ability to treat all those I meet with warmth and gratitude in everything I do.
While at work this weekend, someone had said, “everyone should work a job in customer service,” and I could not agree more. It is an incredibly humbling experience to be at the service of others. I believe Anthony Bourdain was a true embodiment of this industry. His ability to build relationships and communicate effectively in a honest and endearing manner are skills that can often only be developed in the service industry. Those skills only continued to ripen through his television shows and unparalleled storytelling.
In the end, it was his love for food and writing that inspired me most. I don’t have what it takes to make it in the restaurant industry, but I do take pleasure in cooking for myself and my friends, and have him to thank for encouraging me to explore the kitchen a little more often.
To you Mr. Bourdain, I hope you have peace. I hope there is delicious food and drink wherever you are. And I hope you know how much the world loves you and misses you.
Rest easy.
