Waiting tables isn’t for everyone. There, I said it. It happens to suit me just peachy for the moment because I’m a total misanthrope and a fine, fine bullshitter. Believe me, it helps. In some ways it’s like being part of some fabulous club; the service industry is a true subculture of grizzled alcoholics straight from the touring company of some wretched Dante adaptation. And boy, do we have some interesting conversations — nothing is taboo and everyone is fair game. I think it’s this raw discourse that’s kept me in this industry for so long, frank and honest exchanges about everything from anal sex to legalization of heroin to alternative phrases for “fag hag.” The managers, even! It’s one big happy drug-addled family.
(Keep reading…)

Filed by Trevor at 10:43 pm under Social Issues, Damn Hippies, Politics
2 Comments

“I ain’t afraid of your Yahweh. I ain’t afraid of your Allah. I ain’t afraid of your Jesus. I’m afraid of what you do in the name of your God.” — Holly Near, “I Ain’t Afraid”

Every year, longtime social activist and singer/songwriter Holly Near swings down to Orange County and gives a concert at my church, always to a packed house. This year the date was set for yesterday evening, and I was fortunate enough to be able to attend — on a comp, no less! Admittedly, prior to about a month ago I’d only ever heard of her once — and even then it was through a passing reference in one of Erma Bombeck’s books — so I really didn’t know what to expect, although I was definitely hoping for a good old fashioned “We Shall Overcome” moment or two. And as it turns out, that’s exactly what I got.
(Keep reading…)

Filed by Trevor at 7:12 pm under Religion, Atheism, UU, Social Issues, Damn Hippies
1 Comment