Transparent Christian Magazine

We recently had family come visit from out of state, and as part of their trip they wanted to see Graceland.

I think everyone should visit the King’s glittery compound at least ONCE, and I have. Though I noted a few things on my second trip that I hadn’t seen the first time, I’m not sure two visits is generally warranted unless you’re a big fan… but I’ll save my comments and critique of Graceland for another time!

After visiting, we took our guests to the Rendezvous restaurant, which claims to be the home of the best BBQ in the South. Again, debatable, but another time, perhaps. We planned to treat them to the whole experience – the cheese plate and pickles for appetizers, a smoked brisket variety entree, and, of course, the dry-rub ribs.

When we arrived down the long flight of stairs at noon, we were greeted by the maitre d’.”At the moment,” he said, “we are serving a limited menu – until 4:30 we only have ribs, cole slaw, beans, and rolls.”

I was disappointed, but I had to give them props for laying it out right away for us. After we were seated, I asked if they had the cheese plate available – the waiter repeated the limited menu, and I apologized, saying, “I assumed that the limitation was just on the cooked items.” He responded, “Yep, and the man who cooks the cheese isn’t in yet.”

Happy or otherwise, I think we were treated right. It really is best to be up front about your capabilities, setting clear expectations with friends, relatives, customers… Sometimes I get a little over my head trying to be everything to everyone – recently I had to hand a project over to another team member because I was out if my element. It was a disappointment all the way around, and I shouldn’t have accepted the job.

Say what you will, but sometimes the man who cooks the cheese simply ISN’T in yet. And I’m learning to appreciate the wisdom of a limited menu!

Be free,
Jeff