I couldn't help but notice the guests at the head table. It was the Davey O'Brien Awards Ceremony at the prestigious Fort Worth Club in Texas. Being the Plus One I was seated right in front of the podium with other side-kicks. Mine was the best seat in the house.
At the head table were:
David O'Brien, Jr.
Josie Arbuckle (High School Scholarship recipient)
Jayden Daniels (Davey O'Brien Award recipient)
Danny White (Davey O'Brien Legend Award recipient)
Paul Greenwell (President of the foundation)
It was an incredible evening, black tie, four courses, quality entertainment and inspirational speeches. And I was privileged to be at the helm. But not the head.
Into the second course of our meal I leaned over to Regina Jackson, Jayden's mother and my table buddy, and noted the five members of the head table. "They look so bored, don't they?" She chuckled through a nod. Leaning then to my brother and his wife we shared the same observation.
Those at the head table were each in their own world, staring ahead, silently eating their meal, or checking their phone. Meanwhile, we were laughing it up, clanging glasses and having a grand time.
They were certainly not unhappy. Theirs was the high honor and they felt it deeply. Each was likely reflecting on a speech they'd been preparing for countless viewers. And they had plenty of small interactions with the person seated at their side. But it was a different vibe. And I couldn't help but define it as... lonely.
We've written a book* about it, Dad and I -- about the risks, rewards and realities of making it to the top. About the drive to get there and then, as he experienced at that head table on Monday night, the desire to leave.
Because it is all temporary.
A facade. At the end of the day these people we praise are no different than you or I. They have struggles and successes. They feel pride and inadequacy. And as they watch myriad fans come and go, they begin to recognize the things that truly matter.
Beyond the honor, fancy parties and incredible shoulders they rub, each is the same human he/she were before getting to that table.
Congrats on the award, Pop. But more importantly, thanks for inspiring me to appreciate my seat. For teaching me to stand in front of a crowd but also to cheer when the spotlight is not on me. Faith, friends and family remain. Forever.
*silent shouts for joy, we have an official publication date... June 11, 2024
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