There is no danger of that. Expediters know me as an expediter and I have had my share of recognition in this industry. But when I speak of fame and glory, and the right and wrong ways in which it can come, I know of which I speak.
In a previous career I had my fifteen minutes of fame that far exceeded anything any expediter will ever have. My name appeared on the front page of the Wall Street Journal. I was written about in depth in the New York Times and in newspapers nationwide, I have been written about in books, appeared on the CNN and Fox News political talk shows, had news crews fly in from foreign countries to interview me in my house, and more. And I walked away from that arena to become a truck driver.
I realized early on that fame is fleeting and that if it is pursued for its own sake, it is an exercise in frustration. I have seen it happen repeatedly among peers that the buzz of fame becomes too pleasurable to let go of. It's like a drug and there are a whole lot of people out there who slip into seeking it for its own sake. When that happens, people can do great harm to themselves seeking the spotlight when it would be better to focus on outcomes that are healthier and more financially sound.
My comments have nothing to do with eating my heart out. It has to do with the experience I have and the experience I share. I walked away from an arena in which I was a national figure. I am now about to walk away from expediting, where a certain amount of recognition came my way, into a fitness club franchise where the contractual obligations of the franchise will make me all but invisible outside the walls of the gyms I own. I've had more than my share of fame and glory, and knowing that it is fleeting, am more than willing to leave it behind.
Now, if we may, let's not make this thread about me. The Caffee's have legitimately received a moment of fame and glory. Let's congratulate them for it and wish them the best. I have done exactly that, and also shared a bit of advice that few people on this forum have the background and experience from which to share the same.
Congratulations, Bob and Linda Caffee!
Respice te, stnem te memento