Dear Special Man

I'm Listening.

First of all, I just want to say its good to have you back!! I love your column. Although I’m not the type to ask for advice, I thought you might be able to help.

So, I’m 56 years old and run a seafood restaurant with my wife in the CBD. Our establishment is successful, I have a great crew, and my wife is a godsend. On the outside everything is wonderful. But I can’t help being plagued by self-doubt and impending doom. How’s that for dramatic? I just can’t shake it for some reason. I suppose its equal parts post Katrina, rising crime, and the recession. I want to enjoy my life and success but it’s somehow eluding me. Any words of wisdom?

Thanks!

Downtown Depressed

Dear Downtown Depressed,
So let me get this straight, you are a successful restauranteur in beautiful downtown New Orleans. You’ve got a lovely wife, dedicated employees, crustacean craving guests, and a business you care deeply about. On the outset you are handling business. But, there is an inner struggle that must be attended to.

Brother, you need to move like the Sun and “rise and shine.” Easier said than done? Maybe. But I’ve just begun.

I’m going to give you a “special” prescription that just may help you out. Do me this favor, I want you to stand in front of the nearest mirror. Look deep inside your own eyes and repeat this mantra: “Let HIM have it.” HIM being you and you being HIM. The thing about it is that you’ve always had it. But somewhere down the line you got distracted by life’s foibles and began to not trust the laws of nature and yourself.

So, you need to be reminded of what you already know. So remind yourself. Be your own best friend and give yourself the credit you deserve. Yes, Katrina is a bitch and she rained on our parade. Crime is affecting us all the time’n. And don’t get me started on the recession. If it was up to me, I’d be spanking the powers that be. But think about it, after all that B.S is said and done, you still have it all. Give yourself a break and let yourself have it.

Remind and unwind,

The Special Man

The Special Man, a successful businessman and multimedia personality, writes a regular advice column as a public service to our readers. If you’d like the advice of The Special Man, write to:DearSpecialMan@gmail.com

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