Alligator Tears Courtesy Of A Waiter

In 1993, ESPN presented Coach Jim Valvano with the Arthur Ashe Award. During the acceptance speech, he said (and I’m paraphrasing) that everyday you should laugh, spend some time in thought, and have your emotions moved to tears. Since I heard that speech I’ve followed his advice, although the “moved to tears” portion usually doesn’t happen in the middle of a crowded restaurant. But, that’s exactly where I cried recently when my friend Mark and I witnessed a waiter by the name of Vangel, do something truly incredible.

As we picked at our appetizer, Vangel serviced his tables like a surgeon. Close by, there were two women, and a boy that looked about four years old. He had been disruptive and unmanageable since arriving. Vangel approached them with his big smile, and a soft voice that was distinctly Eastern European. Surprisingly, the waiter asked if he could take the child and show him the kitchen. Even more astonishing was the mother said, “Sure.” With speed and efficiency, Vangel took the boy on a tour and brought him back safe and sound without compromising the level of service.

During the remainder of lunch, we watched this once unruly child sit quietly, behaving, and smiling every time he saw Vangel. As the three rose to leave, we overheard the mother say to Vangel, “It was nice meeting you,” and then magic happened. The little boy approached the waiter, pulled him down, hugged his neck, and asked if they could be best friends. It was incredibly odd that no one else in the restaurant seemed to notice what took place, but Mark and I “FELT” it.

Instantly my mind was filled with questions. Who was this man? Did he do this kind of thing often? What spell did he cast on the mother and child? So, after grabbing his attention, Vangel spent a few minutes explaining to us that he loves serving people by waiting tables. So much so, that he also also works at another top establishment in downtown Atlanta. Unfortunately, even though he’s doing what he loves and taking care of his family, his daughter is embarrassed about his employment. Slowly tears began to well up as he poured his heart out. We could see how much he loved what he did, and it was clear by what happened with the child he was making a positive impact in the lives of others.

As I continued listening, I too began to cry, because Vangel was an incredible man who spends most of his time in conflict. Seeing him in action inspired me. He had an amazing gift, but when he shared it with the world, he lost the support of a loved one. That’s a difficult place to spend your life. In the case of Vangel, I’m not really sure I know what the answer is, but for all of our sakes, I hope his daughter realizes he’s a man to be proud of and begins to support him fully. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the matter and wish you all #aSensationalLife.

Duane Cummings lives life with a single purpose, “To Aid Others, Act on Ideas, and Achieve Sensational Results.” He is a trusted advisor to organizations and individuals around the world regarding professional and personal development. Duane is an author, entrepreneur, coach, and consultant who speaks regularly on a range of topics that include entrepreneurship, leadership, communication, sales, and finding your purpose.

Duane learned the importance of teamwork and honed his leadership skills early by serving in the U.S. Army, and then by winning championships as a professional soccer player and coach. After retiring from athletics, he successfully transferred to the business world, where he held several sales management positions, before stepping out to build his own start up wholesale clothing company. December 31, 2014 marked the completion of his most challenging project thus far. As COO and an equity partner, Duane helped guide Erick Flowback Services, LLC during their preparation and sale. Duane is still partners in, or owner of, several other companies in a variety of industries.

Along with several co-authoring projects and writing the next book in the Sensational Series, Duane now spends a great deal of time mentoring and also serves the needs of several non profit organizations. Duane and his wife, Kim, have two sons, Matthew and Christopher.

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