What will it take to bring people back together?
This is not the only time in history when people have been deeply divided. And it’s not confined to America. We need to find something, my friends.
Today… I was reminded of two
I was struggling getting started with today’s post. I’ve shared how it works for me before… usually there’s a moment during the week when the idea hits me. “That’s it! That’s my post!”
Then it’s becomes a matter of quickly jotting down some thoughts before the inspiration evaporates.
But not today… I went through my notes, through a stack inspiration swipes, nothing… nada… until I took a break for lunch.
I hopped in my VW and headed straight for Willard’s Real Pit BBQ.
In Northern Virginia, Willard’s is as good as it gets. It’s the real thing, I’m telling you.
The place is usually packed inside, along with a steady stream of take-out patrons. Today, the Arctic Blast has most of the country holed-up inside waiting for milder conditions. It was a little sparse for Willard’s.
Maybe it was because the place was at about a third of normal? But it clearly stood out to me when I stepped inside and scanned the mix of BBQ faithfuls. I immediately felt the vibe. One of comfort.
One of “Come on in… this stuff is good!”
This is a place where everyone is welcome, whether they came from the office, their route, their shop or wherever. It’s all good.
I was in and out and on my way because I was one of the take-out crew. Hey, I had a post to write.
But that vibe stayed with me…
Back in my car the feeling continues. That song on my radio must have been Heaven sent. I wasn’t even on the Blues station, this was Deep Tracks on SiriusXM. Mercury Blues…straight-up, just gotta feel it Blues.
Without a doubt, BBQ and the Blues just go together.
On the ride home I thought about it some more… Every BBQ place I’ve ever been that was the real thing had the same vibe. (You can exclude the franchises and big-box-BBQ, they couldn’t pull it off with all the money in the world).
I’m talking authentic, with a seat for everyone. With seats for friends who have never met.
What is it? It’s simple really. Good down-home comfort food made with love for the craft and a huge big heart. People of all walks escaping the world around them for a moment of delicious, soulful, common human enjoyment and sharing something they all love.
“Hey friend, do you have any extra sauce over there?”
Add some Blues and it’s the same thing all over again for your ears. Sure, some places may prefer country, or soul, or oldies, or whatever.
Here’s the thing… I have never been to a Blues bar where I didn’t feel welcome. And I’ve been to more than I can remember. All the pretense, all the differences that divide people, those things must be left at the door.
We’ll take you as you are.
When you’re in that kind of place, when you’re enjoying a craft that comes from deep in the heart… all that really matters is to listen to that man play or to listen to that woman sing!
There is nothing that divides us when it’s as true as BBQ and some Blues.
Be untucked.
So, wherever you are… whatever you’re doing… scroll down and leave me a comment. Let’s kick this around.
Copyright © 2019 Jeff Meister – All Rights Reserved
Great post Jeff. You never said what you had. When ever go go to Barbs doctor at KU Med we end up going Joes Barbecue. They were just voted the best Barbecue in the USA. Alway busy but so good.
Pulled pork with baked beans, mac ‘n’ cheese, and damn good cornbread! We’d love to join you at Joe’s in KC!!
You, my friend, have just strummed a Major Cord of taste and Note of heart and sole in the key of “G” that’s good food and great music.
See what I mean, Roy! That’s what it does my friend… the soul knows what matters, and what’s good for, well… the soul. Be well!