The Southwest Voice

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I used to live a life of luxury. When lunchtime came, I didn't have to worry about the cost of a meal. "Plus tax and tip" was no big deal to me... it was just an extra $5 or so. I used to eat at the most beautiful restaurants with the most diverse and exquisite menus in town. I don't want to gloat, but I'm talking about places like Taco Bell, Wendy's, and even an occasional visit to Chipotle when I really wanted to pamper myself.

Well, not anymore my friends! I'm not dining with CEOs and VIPs anymore... I dine alone in my office at work. Here's how it goes. Usually, I try to wait as long as I can before I eat so I can cut back from three meals to two meals each day. Once I can't take it anymore, I walk about 5 feet from my desk to my trusty mini-fridge which cools faithfully each day. I sit on the floor and open my refrigerator door where I proceed to make myself a simple sandwich: turkey, cheese, mustard, and bread. Total cost: approximately $1.20 per sandwich.

So far this week, I have eaten four turkey and cheese sandwiches in four days. Last week was the same story. Today as I write to you, I am ecstatic because I added a little diversity to my lunch. My fiancé bought me two apples yesterday and I am eating one right now. My taste buds are praising God for a flavor they had almost forgotten until today.

As I conclude this letter to you today, I definitely do not want you to feel sorry for me. I do not deserve or desire pity. What I do desire is to share some advice with you regarding your future with food. Find yourself a good friend... a rich friend who loves to eat. Call that friend often, always at about 11am. Talk about the weather, talk about sports or the news, and then talk about your turkey and cheese sandwich. I guarantee you, it will work every time. Finally, if you find yourself with more than one of this kind of friend, please send one my way! Good day.