Proof of Compassion
I've never liked the term "Workaholic" or "Workaholism". You might as well call it what it is which is basically a selective form of OCD. The reason I bring this up is because I realize now that while I care not for my job (neither my private, public, or secret one) I have a tendency to be selectively OCD about other things. I'm guessing the reason why is because since I'm given little control or responsibility of things that when I am I want to ensure others that such a decision wasn't in vain, that I am reliable and dependable.
Most probably know where I'm going with this, others can probably see into it deeper.
For those I left hanging on that particular part of the story; yes, I was accepted for the position I volunteered for. And so I got to go to San Japan as the "Water Ninja Coordinator". It was an easy job, pass water out to people who were dehydrating in the godless Texas heat. Regardless of the "easiness of the job" I took it as seriously as I would allow myself without being a dick. I did not underestimate what was going to be thrown at me, but I sadly started to late and in return was horrifically unprepared for the situation. Considering that most of my personal attempts to recruit went upon deaf ears I came to terms and said, "Mick, you're going to have cowboy the fuck up and do it on your own."
And once again my selective OCD took over and in return most of the con is just a blur of events that I could hardly remember spent behind a red cart with several buckets. Kind of like the last con I went to, only being sober (and well no red cart). You heard me right, the majority of San Japan I was actually sober, it brought back memories of a time I didn't drink during conventions. Ah to be 17 again. <3
But as per usual to a con, a person really makes their own fun, as if it's some kind open-ended sandbox game. I was saddened by the fact I didn't have the fun I intended to have but that didn't mean I didn't have fun at all. The truth was, and damn me for my swollen ego, but I was practically everyone's best friend and hero at this thing.
The truth is unlike so many other positions at this event where one doesn't really receive their gratification until it is all said and done my particular position received it instantly. A person is thirsty, they drink my water, they are instantly feeling better and happier. And yes though I received a gnarly sunburn and an embarrassing facial mask tan line I can still say it was all worthwhile. I am proud of what I did, I am especially proud of the work my fellow staff members have done, and am quite proud of the event that was created through everyone's efforts.
Dare I say I left San Japan a smarter and more confident man. I of couse have some minor objections with my work, but as it being the first time volunteering for such a position I felt we did well and have plenty of room to improve. Were I to head the position next year I can say I can think of some ways to ensure the hydration of the attendees (more time to actively recruit without doubt). Mind you I say this in a tentative fashion because while I am confident I did a good job I am not confident I did a good enough job to warrant another stint, or even whether my position will be considered obsolete (after all what be the point of water bearers if no one had to walk outside?).
Yeah, I was intending this to look more organized and talk about more stuff. But honestly considering how ranty the whole damn thing sounds I will just cut it off for now and hope I have the balls to keep posting and not fizzle out like I always do and will end this post with a quote given to me by an attendee:
"You're like an angel that has descended from heaven, with a bucket in one hand and paper cups in the other."
Most probably know where I'm going with this, others can probably see into it deeper.
For those I left hanging on that particular part of the story; yes, I was accepted for the position I volunteered for. And so I got to go to San Japan as the "Water Ninja Coordinator". It was an easy job, pass water out to people who were dehydrating in the godless Texas heat. Regardless of the "easiness of the job" I took it as seriously as I would allow myself without being a dick. I did not underestimate what was going to be thrown at me, but I sadly started to late and in return was horrifically unprepared for the situation. Considering that most of my personal attempts to recruit went upon deaf ears I came to terms and said, "Mick, you're going to have cowboy the fuck up and do it on your own."
And once again my selective OCD took over and in return most of the con is just a blur of events that I could hardly remember spent behind a red cart with several buckets. Kind of like the last con I went to, only being sober (and well no red cart). You heard me right, the majority of San Japan I was actually sober, it brought back memories of a time I didn't drink during conventions. Ah to be 17 again. <3
But as per usual to a con, a person really makes their own fun, as if it's some kind open-ended sandbox game. I was saddened by the fact I didn't have the fun I intended to have but that didn't mean I didn't have fun at all. The truth was, and damn me for my swollen ego, but I was practically everyone's best friend and hero at this thing.
The truth is unlike so many other positions at this event where one doesn't really receive their gratification until it is all said and done my particular position received it instantly. A person is thirsty, they drink my water, they are instantly feeling better and happier. And yes though I received a gnarly sunburn and an embarrassing facial mask tan line I can still say it was all worthwhile. I am proud of what I did, I am especially proud of the work my fellow staff members have done, and am quite proud of the event that was created through everyone's efforts.
Dare I say I left San Japan a smarter and more confident man. I of couse have some minor objections with my work, but as it being the first time volunteering for such a position I felt we did well and have plenty of room to improve. Were I to head the position next year I can say I can think of some ways to ensure the hydration of the attendees (more time to actively recruit without doubt). Mind you I say this in a tentative fashion because while I am confident I did a good job I am not confident I did a good enough job to warrant another stint, or even whether my position will be considered obsolete (after all what be the point of water bearers if no one had to walk outside?).
Yeah, I was intending this to look more organized and talk about more stuff. But honestly considering how ranty the whole damn thing sounds I will just cut it off for now and hope I have the balls to keep posting and not fizzle out like I always do and will end this post with a quote given to me by an attendee:
"You're like an angel that has descended from heaven, with a bucket in one hand and paper cups in the other."