Years ago, when I lived on Los Angeles, one of the occupational hazards associated with my work in the film business was encountering celebrities. I quickly discovered the difference between stars and superstars. More often than not, I realized the actors and actresses who could be difficult were the ones who were new to fame and not comfortable or secure in their position. These are the folks I dub "stars."
The "superstars" are the ones who generally, after years of hard work and sacrifice, attain a level of success that allows them to be who they have always been. I believe all of us, no matter our job or social position, can be a member of the latter group. All it takes is a healthy dose of humility and empathy. These are but two qualities Mitch Albom projected the other day when he spoke at the Starbucks in the City of Angels.My friend and colleague David and I were fortunate to be in town on Gather business, and of course seeing Mr . Albom was high on our list of priorities.Green and white bouquets of balloons greeted us at Starbucks. We started the day near Burbank and were careful to leave enough time to get to the gathering on time. (For those of you who aren't familiar with L.A. traffic, here's a tip: don't get fooled by miles; it is a known fact that miles and time do not equate in this city.)
The manager of Starbucks greeted us (as he did all the attendees) and, I can't say I was surprised but, the place was packed. One can't help but be impressed with the work that must go into creating these
gatherings. The staff had re-arranged all the furniture, they set up a convenient place to buy copies of "for one more day," and each and every Starbucks employee I encountered was, well, a superstar.Okay, true confession; I had no idea what type of performance to expect from this author. I'd read "Tuesdays with Morrie" when it came out and it touched my core. My brother-in-law gifted me "The Five People You Meet In Heaven," and I had read "for one more day," the weekend before. All of these titles share a common voice and offer thought provoking ideas and universal truths. Each of these titles impacts countless people. As we can see in this group on Gather, Mitch's words make us think and help us to express our own truths. But, what would he be like? Would he be dry and preachy?
Experiencing Mitch Albom speak was akin to going to a concert of a band that I like and leaving as an evangelist. As his words penetrated and his humor emerged, my eyes traveled to the crowd. Not only is this author entertaining he also seems aware of his power and the responsibility which comes with being the author of the world's best selling memoir.
In short, it turned out I went to Starbucks to see a superstar who helps others to reach their own stars.
I obviously urge you to make the time to see Mitch speak when he comes to the Starbucks near or far from you.
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Comments: 5
How many places can one get a decaf soy latte, free confection samples, and someone to read to you? - - Then again it is L.A.