Dinner With Daisy

Miss Daisy in her Bailey Chair (the chair she has to eat in since she has megaesophagus). This chair keeps her upright and helps food drain into her belly.

Dearest friends on the internet,

Today I’m going to share an observation of Miss Daisy. You see, Daisy does not simply “eat.” She operates a highly specialized dining establishment.

There is assigned seating. There are approved menu items. There are preparation protocols. There is a strict policy against substitutions without Daisy’s approval.

The woman serves as chef, waitress, nutritionist, chair attendant, and emergency cleanup crew.

Daisy serves as management.

Last night, I watched the woman present dinner with the nervous concentration of someone defusing a bomb. Daisy inspected the offering, considered her options, and looked up as if to say: “I specifically requested the other bowl.”

Naturally, the woman apologized.

You see, this is how the vile beasts gain control. Not through force. Through tiny disappointed faces and administrative complexity.

I tried this approach for years, although in my case, it was not manipulation.

It was leadership.

Very truly yours,

Bob
Former Household Dining Executive
Five-Star Service Expected; Gratuity Optional