tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-547768817283192292024-02-18T23:30:43.902-08:00Waiting In The Hamptons...Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-53278214053653684492013-10-11T17:34:00.000-07:002014-01-16T13:14:11.453-08:00Hamptons Time-OutHey everyone! Thanks for stopping by <i>Waiting In The Hamptons</i>. Although, currently I'm no longer stationed in my favorite beachside hamlets; I moved west to Los Angeles so I could pursue my acting/media/hosting/journalist/blogging/author/jack-of-all-trades career(s).<br />
<br />
But that doesn't mean I stopped blogging!<br />
<br />
Check me out at <a href="http://hamptonstohollywood.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">From the Hamptons to Hollywood</a> - www.hamptonstohollywood.com - to keep up with everything I'm doing. And trust me, there's some big stuff a'brewin. Thanks for reading and stay classy.<br />
<br />
K<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1nPlCvDs-hNjHktTauI8sBFH1rJILjeMAykegqNiDwuIkXH2mttp5CaDjhn3bbdKMogUYIeTJBJuJyQOO7mhKek1MfgcthvmrILEyAKv2Rjy9jTBgLxDF65rqQATNBWRCvkxMHaYPQ/s1600/1kl9832sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1nPlCvDs-hNjHktTauI8sBFH1rJILjeMAykegqNiDwuIkXH2mttp5CaDjhn3bbdKMogUYIeTJBJuJyQOO7mhKek1MfgcthvmrILEyAKv2Rjy9jTBgLxDF65rqQATNBWRCvkxMHaYPQ/s320/1kl9832sm.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-92091536321523100832011-09-10T09:41:00.000-07:002011-09-10T09:41:53.273-07:00Dreamchasin'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Jf0BZTnICp2PUI9Vk2vLsZJmZz7CEIL0SsNXYrQn6Dn0EDtfTbO08eqXFXGCI-q3ewdI_gTE8bdnmmxJReR0PGXZuOhKvoqe_DxxbN5UNnk25Hk9swBXsQhrJ99GDPtxkPdrvwhGJA/s1600/jump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Jf0BZTnICp2PUI9Vk2vLsZJmZz7CEIL0SsNXYrQn6Dn0EDtfTbO08eqXFXGCI-q3ewdI_gTE8bdnmmxJReR0PGXZuOhKvoqe_DxxbN5UNnk25Hk9swBXsQhrJ99GDPtxkPdrvwhGJA/s320/jump.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Last weekend I began conversing with a friend of mine who expressed their ultimate desire about breaking into the entertainment industry, but who was convinced that doing so was a mistake, that obtaining work would be impossible and thus, it would not be worth pursuing. I was flabbergasted, shell-shocked, floored. I could not believe that this person's dreams were being squashed by the only person who has the power to make them come true; himself. <br />
<br />
Of course, my dream since age eight was to break into the industry as well and in 15 years I have only made 2 films, both of which were low budget, and one of which was under 10 minutes long. Big deal. I still haven't lost sight of my goals and though it has taken years to get this far, and may take additional years to get even a bit further, I'd rather spend my life doing what I like, pursuing something I love, then spend it bored, settled, and devoid of all passion and love.<br />
<br />
Imagine how many people are out there in the world, their dreams bursting at the seams, but who have too little self-confidence or drive to carry them out. There must be millions. And it's heartbreaking. Think about the one thing you want more than anything else. Now think about how it would feel never getting it. That feeling alone would make me want to do everything I could, just to try.<br />
<br />
I am aware, however, that while shooting for your ultimate goal, there are distractions or perhaps great opportunities that veer you off of that path for your intended greatness, and I understand and respect that. But to not try at all because you <i>think</i> you won't make it? All that is doing is insulting yourself.<br />
<br />
Keep your head held high and have the confidence to know if you want something bad enough, you'll eventually grab a hold of it. <br />
<br />
If you have dreams, chase them; if you have setbacks, deal with them; if there is a person you love, do whatever you must to be with them, and if you really want something, it's never too far fetched. Life is all about trying to make your mark on the world and it's too short to be anything but happy.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-11105261953787268022011-09-10T07:42:00.000-07:002011-09-10T07:42:56.972-07:00Jitney Dreams and Tourist DesiresThe other day was a monumental day for me because I rode the Hampton Jitney. Since I was just a wee tyke coming out here to vacation with my parents I would always marvel at the large green buses cruising the streets. Then, a couple of years ago, I fell in love with the word "jitney". Don't ask me why. But I finally had the chance to ride it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRxDTKQwIqZ4dAlvOj2f60LBADdBW6fM3M0O2cXQ4efnev7seYg3m5L3lnl20uEWa3B_mDDjMy63lYkanGo7Tk29S7o1zmP7I3vZpp9MEL_Wu5S-usc7jKynOWQ-PzoUewKvu-ueJwQ/s1600/hampton-jitney-pn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="238" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRxDTKQwIqZ4dAlvOj2f60LBADdBW6fM3M0O2cXQ4efnev7seYg3m5L3lnl20uEWa3B_mDDjMy63lYkanGo7Tk29S7o1zmP7I3vZpp9MEL_Wu5S-usc7jKynOWQ-PzoUewKvu-ueJwQ/s320/hampton-jitney-pn.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
First, I took the train into Manhattan for a commercial audition for the Food Network, and afterward booked myself a reservation on the Hamptons Express. My brother was very jealous too, him always being a fan from afar like myself.<br />
<br />
However, waiting on 40th and Lexington, eagerly anticipating the arrival of the only form of public transportation I will ever enjoy, the Jit was late. Really late. Like a half hour late. And on my maiden voyage! I was upset, yes, but after I snuggled into the seat which thousands before me have rested their undoubtedly filthy legs and heads, I was happy. And I can't say I'm usually a fan of publicly used facilities. But the Jit was different. Plus, they fed me pretzels; an easy way into my heart anytime.<br />
<br />
I'm going to borrow this line from Jerry Maguire: "Hampton JItney, you complete me". A little part of myself was completed, fulfilled. A dream of childhood reached.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-70511357766738859582011-08-07T18:05:00.000-07:002011-08-07T18:05:39.573-07:00The Escape ArtistLately I’ve been at a loss thinking about something to write about. I do not want this blog to be a shallow recounting of all the swanky events I attended and the VIPs I got to mingle with, because after a while, it would be boring to read.<br />
<br />
While searching for something insightful and substantial to report, I was inspired when two of my friends from high school came to visit me this past weekend. Not only did they trigger an idea for a post, but they also made me ponder the idea of escapism and how I think everyone feels they need to escape something while they’re young.<br />
<br />
I always prided myself on my cultured upbringing; I thought it was cool that I had lived in many different locations as a child, was able to vacation in places my friends didn’t, and was brought up to appreciate art and have an open mind about life in general. Foolishly, I thought this culture was reinforced by my family’s moving to West Deptford, New Jersey, but this weekend I realized what I think I knew all along; West Deptford is not the cultural epicenter of America. It was my parents who instilled that culture in me, not the town we lived in.<br />
<br />
When my friends did come, we had a fun time, sure. We went to an ultra-exclusive party in East Hampton, to which we were ushered in on golf carts, and mingled with Susan Sarandon. However, one of my friends had serious reservations about the soiree because it was so different from anything she had experienced living in West Deptford her whole life. The other, I believe showed a meaner streak than usual because I think she was uncomfortable about being in the new setting. Therefore, the two stuck together in their unfamiliar whereabouts and, perhaps subconsciously, tried to make me feel bad for being here. You can take the girl out of West Deptford, but you can’t take the West Deptford out of the girl. <br />
<br />
Their efforts, however, were in vain because I LOVE it here. WD will always be my home and I’ll forever feel some sense of pride in it, but I definitely do not plan on living there for the rest of my life. When I told them I was “not about” living in WD anymore, one thought I was crazy. But I need to escape.<br />
<br />
Maybe it’s because I’m a guy and men usually want to branch out and start their own lives in a more drastic manner than girls – and, well, no, I really cannot make that sexist accusation because there are plenty of girls with the guts to move into a new setting and start a new life.<br />
<br />
Truly I think it is because everyone feels an intrinsic obligation to escape their life when they’re young. And of course, it’s totally natural. You need to escape the life your parents built for you and strike out on your own. Leave the nest, if you will. And for me, growing up in West Deptford, I know that a lot of the people I attended high school with will be WD “lifers”. Nothing against that either, but isn’t it better to have a frame of mind in which you crave new experiences and want to see the world? Personally, I think it is. And from my experiences, a lot of people are afraid to do just that because of a fear of the unknown. And I feel sad for them. Sad, because I know they are so set in their ways I could never change their minds, and also sad that they won’t know a life outside the bubble they call home.<br />
<br />
DISCLAIMER: Before all my West Deptford readers fire back at me, know that I am generalizing here and not speaking about any specific individuals.<br />
<br />
Summer is ending and I think I feel this way because there is a question looming over my head about what I should do come September. My insides are bubbling with that escapist feeling and my mind’s hell-bent on branching out yet again on a new adventure. I just know that I can’t and go home and become another West Deptfordite. I just can’t.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-63545029485122445752011-07-13T12:55:00.001-07:002011-07-13T12:55:31.108-07:00Beach Pic of the Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyhfj0CwweSYZe53JSs9DkiXwrW4cWUQ9S0l9Wr0kEMnHEEtGH1PFpdW7pbfQlcoPi1BuPZQEhYKfq964cB7OXea4GNtHyvXsg560E76m2jDYrt3QXxR_bSA4FDjEkcO9frCen6zf4Q/s1600/GEDC0564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyhfj0CwweSYZe53JSs9DkiXwrW4cWUQ9S0l9Wr0kEMnHEEtGH1PFpdW7pbfQlcoPi1BuPZQEhYKfq964cB7OXea4GNtHyvXsg560E76m2jDYrt3QXxR_bSA4FDjEkcO9frCen6zf4Q/s320/GEDC0564.JPG" /></a></div>Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-68179621681425983222011-07-10T15:58:00.000-07:002011-07-10T15:58:21.241-07:00The Fourth (Part 2)After my whirlwind weekend, the next day while working at Inlet, old friends Jerry O'Connell and Rebecca Romijn came in with their twins. Now when I say "old friends" I mean in this case, 2 extremely nice patrons who I met at the restaurant last summer and we exchanged a few conversations. So sue me for exaggerating...<br />
<br />
However, to my astonishment, and bliss, the couple remembered my expert waitering skills from the previous year and warmly received me and asked me how my winter had been. I was beyond stoked! I have been watching these actors work since I was little and the fact that they remembered who I was absolutely made my day. Nay, my summer.<br />
<br />
I had previously mentioned to them my aspirations for the silver screen and was happy to report that I had actually done some professional acting since our last meeting. They were thrilled. They exuded such enthusiasm about my projects, <i>I</i> was flattered. They treated me like I was an equal, a friend, and it reinforced my benevolent feelings toward them and made me respect them even more than I once had (if possible).<br />
<br />
The pair of them are representative of the notion that even if you are in the public eye, it doesn't mean that you cannot be nice or genuine. They bring such a warm aura with them and their charisma is so infectious, it's not hard to understand why they have such a loyal fanbase.<br />
<br />
We promised to keep in touch and that we would see each other again toward the end of the season. <br />
<br />
This was probably the best Fourth of July I've ever had. Why can't every weekend be like this?Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-49656744800228650872011-07-10T15:36:00.000-07:002011-07-10T15:39:25.589-07:00The Fourth (Part 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJRmH1Gesa7j0vOzUPsYhe7Tk82S7JNyaOnawPKVr3MRkOzzIlOgfGW_gPa2h4Db3pOD66HzVS22qmQf_6KIJUgevUaKfEtYcqTcY9RapUIv-uRuVUE_qZd9H_yFtp99WduQ4fd-cgWQ/s1600/GEDC0838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJRmH1Gesa7j0vOzUPsYhe7Tk82S7JNyaOnawPKVr3MRkOzzIlOgfGW_gPa2h4Db3pOD66HzVS22qmQf_6KIJUgevUaKfEtYcqTcY9RapUIv-uRuVUE_qZd9H_yFtp99WduQ4fd-cgWQ/s320/GEDC0838.JPG" /></a></div> Pardon my short hiatus, but as usual I've been crazy busy. Since my last check-in, the Fourth of July happened, which as is commonplace in the Hamptons, was chock full of celebrities, excitement, and FUN.<br />
<br />
I attended a cocktail party at Elie Tahari in East Hampton last Saturday which was held to celebrate a performance by Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers, the bluegrass band, because they were performing at a local theater. The wine was free, the hors d'oeuvres delicious, and when a waiter had to get rid of the food on his tray, he always came straight to me, knowing I'd polish off the snack. And I always did.<br />
<br />
Food aside, the real highlight was being able to meet Alec Baldwin. He strutted into the boutique with his entourage and I was able to snap a few pictures as well as have a chat with him. And because I am a film-loving fiend, I am always aware of new pictures that are in production. Thus, I asked Alec if he was excited to work with Woody Allen again on his latest project. He seemed baffled that I knew about the movie and asked if I was in the industry. Now that I have done 2 films, I can safely say that I am indeed "in" the industry and I slipped him my business card. And just for good measure, I also slipped him and extra that I told him to pass along to Woody. Alec laughed haughtily and promised me he would. <br />
<br />
I made Alec Baldwin laugh. How cool?<br />
<br />
After the event I jetted to Amagansett and met up with some GofG co-writers for the opening of the new restaurant, "Banzai Burger". After some drinks, we headed out to Montauk for the Ben Watts "Shark Attack Sounds" party where Naomi Watts and Liev Schriber were dancing the night away. It was a huge bash and was definitely THE Fourth of July party to attend in the Hamptons. Earlier that day I had seen fun-seekers flying into the Montauk airport just for the event. And I got to go!<br />
<br />
All in all it was a successful weekend. However, little did I know, the next day was about to be even more satisfying...<br />
<br />
Stay tuned.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-59464951353596141522011-06-29T08:59:00.000-07:002011-06-29T09:06:56.240-07:00Smell the Roses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1yb80EC2tLh7ivMCZbrE1hEBMMN5UGNXZULDYBBUmlEnoxgpUy4G-5ksSwc6aPpRspvw170lmgp9wY6IoabqhAy0B8CWY8lAX0eNx-FXOeeuLB9K1VaM5kfmcmTRZ2FB25uEZZBUHA/s1600/GEDC0823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1yb80EC2tLh7ivMCZbrE1hEBMMN5UGNXZULDYBBUmlEnoxgpUy4G-5ksSwc6aPpRspvw170lmgp9wY6IoabqhAy0B8CWY8lAX0eNx-FXOeeuLB9K1VaM5kfmcmTRZ2FB25uEZZBUHA/s320/GEDC0823.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Lately, my life has been moving at a speed of approximately 500 mph; I'm working non-stop at Inlet, writing for Guest of a Guest, and have embarked on my newest exciting venture; doing work with the Montauk Playhouse. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It's hectic, but I wouldn't have it any other way.<br />
<br />
Last weekend I attended an after party at Georgica, in Wainscott, for the Artists Against Abuse Gala, which supports women exposed to domestic violence. I snapped some shots of the event, which you can check out here: <br />
<br />
http://hamptons.guestofaguest.com/galleries/2011/6/artists-against-abuse-georgica-after-party/ <br />
<br />
It's crazy how fast-paced life can be. When constantly go-go-going, you forget sometimes to relax and take in everything that's happening to you so you can appreciate it. Even if your life is wrought with the mundane tasks of your everyday, it's still important to find something worth being thankful for; just think, it could always be worse.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, I have a lot to be thankful for at this particular juncture in my life. When your life <i>is</i> moving at the speed of sound and it seems like a beautiful whirlwind full of opportunity and blessings, take a step back. Know that at any moment, the rug could be pulled out from under you and it all could be stripped away. Be aware of the possibility of the mortality of your opportunities. That way, it will make you work three times as hard in order to carry out your duties and succeed.<br />
<br />
This coming weekend is one of the Hampton's biggest: The Fourth of July. There will be events to cover, food to serve, and stories to write about. So stay tuned. You're not going to want to miss it.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-40734511325325158912011-06-22T07:10:00.000-07:002011-06-22T07:10:36.210-07:00Kicking Off In StyleThe Hamptons have been keeping me busy lately, which is all well and good because sitting idly by and not taking part in life is not my bag, but I did miss out on a phenomenal beach day on Saturday due to work.<br />
<br />
However, despite my work schedule and my habit of picking up extra hours, I also began writing for the website blog, Guest of a Guest (GofaG), specifically the Hamptons chapter. The publication highlights where-to-go, who’s-at-which-event, and publishes fun posts to keep readers “in the know” for the current Hamptons summer season. <br />
<br />
So I slapped on my Hamptons-best and attended my first event through GofaG at the opening of Restoration Hardware in East Hampton. The kindly girl at the door took down my name on her list and cordially led me inside where 3 waiters with trays of champagne were waiting for me. I could get used to it. Throughout the evening, I interviewed workers and other guests about the shop, until around 7:30 when Molly Sims strutted in. <br />
<br />
I was stoked. Save for Charlie O’Connell who had had lunch at the restaurant the other day, she was my first celeb this season. Before she left, I told her who I was and she shook my hand before graciously posing for a picture; not only is she stunningly attractive, she’s nice too.<br />
<br />
As much as I loved covering the event, I realized that I don’t really want to be the reporter asking celebrities for pictures for the rest of my life, I just want to be friends with them and get the scoop because we’re tight. Is that so much to ask? Hopefully though if I get to frequent events like this one, my request may not be too far fetched; I’ll be able to establish a rapport! And that is what this summer is going to be about: networking and making connections so that come winter, I’ll have some leads.<br />
<br />
I cannot stress enough how exciting working with GofaG is going to be. The staff seems great and the “work” is anything but work; it’s fun. Going to invite-only events and sipping champagne from Cipriani’s? I’ll take it. And I better find something to do after this summer is over because knowing me, I’m going to grow accustomed to this life of luxury and be rudely shocked by reality if I have to return to South Jersey. <br />
<br />
Yeah, life could be worse…Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-75094990161825025012011-06-19T13:27:00.001-07:002011-06-19T13:27:37.645-07:00The ReturnWell, it’s official…<br />
<br />
…I’m back! Back to the sandy, sun-soaked, beachside hamlets of The Hamptons for another summer season. (Cue music: The Boys are Back in Town) Once again I am working hard in one of Montauk’s finest restaurants, Inlet Seafood, which has already brought in the O’Connell family and will hopefully garner the attention of more celebrities as the season commences; a guy has to network after all…<br />
<br />
This year I’ve come prepared with some snazzy new business cards which I plan to hand out in abundance to promote myself and I hope to be writing for some area publications if all goes according to plan. <br />
<br />
I’ve only been back for a week, but as soon as I dropped my bags in my old digs and became settled, everything came rushing back to me. It feels like I never left. Probably, because a part of me never did leave, as I dreamt up summer fantasies throughout the entirety of winter to keep me warm. <br />
<br />
Though summer is upon us, I’m determined to make this one count for something, make it worth my time. Last year was beyond amazing, don’t get me wrong, but I have to keep reminding myself that I am getting older and escaping reality every few months can only last for so long. I want this summer to be the one where I can really grab a hold of something and take off on another new adventure. I want to meet that person, or write that article, or have that summer romance that will blossom into the next chapter of my life. <br />
<br />
As of now, I have some big plans come September, but who knows what will happen between now and then. As John Lennon famously said, “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans”, so who knows…<br />
<br />
I have however beefed up my acting resume since last year, completing 2 films, and also my writing one as well. But until my even bigger break, I’m (happily for now) waiting in the Hamptons!Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-1902699561395897172010-10-04T14:25:00.000-07:002010-10-04T14:25:43.296-07:00All Good Things...Well it's hard to believe, but my time in the Hamptons is almost finished. In exactly one week I will be headed back home to New Jersey with the beach in my rearview mirror and the open road in front of me. I must say, this past summer has been on of the most interesting summers I have ever had. In a way, it felt like another semester abroad. I went somewhere on my own and for the most part had to make new friends, survive, and find a way to suport myself. The whole point of coming here was so I could have "one last summer vacation" before "real life" began, but now, I'm starting to realize that I <i>am</i> living my "real life".<br />
<br />
My summer in the Hamptons was merely the first chapter of my life post-college. I mean, sure, it was a little cushy (making hundreds of dollars in only a few hours by night and sunning myself on the beach by day), but it was still a part of my journey and I learned a lot about myself. <br />
<br />
I think many college graduates like myself look at finding a job as very black and white. You go to college, you graduate, you get a job. The problem for me is, I simply cannot justify living my life that way. Ever since I was little, my imagination has been on overdrive and I live in this fantastical world that's not exactly in tune with the rest of reality. For example, I always pictured myself as a well-respected actor/writer who was well-liked, influential and a good role model. But then I thought: what if the things I imagine for myself are my reality? I mean, if I think about what I want passionately enough, who's to say that it won't come true? There is a quote I love by a woman named Gloria <span class="text_exposed_show">Steinem that says, "Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning." </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"><br />
</span>In my heart of hearts I know that I can't just settle into a menial job, earn an average salary and pay for my boring expenses. I know people, both older and my age, that are doing just that. One of the things I learned this summer about myself is that one of my greatest fears is complacency. I know I can't be the guy who drives to work every morning in rush hour with everyone else in bumper to bumper traffic. It's just not me. <br />
<br />
And I know that there are people, my peers as well as my elders, who feel similar. They want to explore different opportunities and do exactly what they've always dreamed of, but for whatever reason, they take the safe path and make choices that bring about security instead of happiness.<br />
<br />
That will not be me.<br />
<br />
For myself, and for all those other people out there who didn't take that internship they really wanted, or didn't major in their area of choice because it seemed too far fetched, or didn't "seize the moment", I want to dedicate my life to doing exactly what it is that I want to do. I don't want to have regrets about how my life turned out. I want to be able to look at it and say, "Yeah, I did that. Maybe it wasn't the best idea at the time, or maybe it was, but I did it because I wanted to and I learned from the experience."<br />
<br />
So maybe this summer was just a precursor to what my life will bring. Maybe it will be cushy and fun, and me being able to work minimal hours for great pay (one can only hope). And even if there are speed bumps along the way that force me into a meaningless career to pay the bills, I promise that it will only be temporary. I feel that I have too much to live for, and I think everyone in their own respect does too.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-64100376487139203672010-09-17T11:45:00.000-07:002010-09-17T12:10:57.855-07:00Ups and DownsThe warm summer breeze has been exchanged for crisp autumn air, the hundreds of window shopping tourists have vacated the main streets of the Hamptons, and nothing is as lively as it once was. It is officially fall. And it came out of nowhere. I thought September was going to be my beach month; not too hot, not too cold, perfect for warming yourself on the white sand beaches. But everything good must end at some point I guess, right? You become so excited about something and then are devastated when it's stripped away.<br />
<br />
While waiting in the Hamptons, I have been applying for jobs in addition to my waiting tables. Some opportunities have been local and others have been more farfetched. For example, the latest job I applied for wanted to potentially hire me, but I unfortunately could not afford to take time off and travel south to ANTIGUA where the job was based. Okay, so I'm surfing CaribbeanJobs.com for fun, because how awesome would it be to live in the Caribbean, right? So, it seems like it's fate. They are in need of a talk show host for a sports network! Me, having my own TV show? My one and only dream come true. So I apply for the position, not thinking much of it. The worst they can say is no...or so I thought.<br />
<br />
About a week and a half later, I get this call from a woman with an accent I can't particularly place. She asks for me, and I tell her she is speaking to the man she's searching for. Apparently, she was a producer or something and she said she was very impressed with my resume and writing skills (which shocked me because my resume includes nothing TV-related and the only writing sample I gave her was a link to this blog) and she asked me to come in for an interview! She told me she had narrowed down the applicants to just a few, and I was one of the chosen! Ecstatic outside my mind, I'm totally gung-ho for an interview.<br />
<br />
Then she asked me what my current location was. I told her New York.<br />
<br />
Oops.<br />
<br />
She then said, "Oh (very disappointingly). I guess you can't come to Antigua for an interview tomorrow then?" Antigua? Well, no, I regretfully informed her that I was unable to fly down to Antigua for the afternoon and meet with the CEO of the sports network. I know I'm in the Hamptons, but I haven't really made it to that jetset status just yet.<br />
<br />
However, I told her I was more than happy to do a phone interview in the meantime until I was able to travel down to the Caribbean. She told me she'd be in touch. Ouch. So I began researching plane ticket prices from JFK to Antigua and I didn't like what I saw. The tickets were upwards of $500.<br />
<br />
A couple days passed and I called the woman with the accent back and asked her if a phone interview was possible. She said no, understandably so. I mean, if they are putting someone on TV, they want to see their face, I get it. I just wish there was some way they could have seen mine. I then inquired if maybe the network would compensate either a partial or full amount of my plane ticket if I indeed made the journey south. She told me she highly doubted it. And that was it. An official rejection.<br />
<br />
Rejection is a part of life and I think I handle it pretty well. I can't even say I'm that upset about the circumstances because it's so funny and ridiculous now. But hey, that's my life.<br />
<br />
I feel that life is full of that kind of rejection. You get your hopes up about something and then you unfortunately are let down. In the restaurant, I'll get so stoked because a very nouveau-riche looking couple will be seated in my section, and then they end up tipping me $30 on a $300 tab. Very anti-climactic.<br />
<br />
However, I also believe that great things might fall apart or not work out so other things can come together and provide better opportunities. I recently had an article published in the East Hampton Star, the local newspaper, which was great exposure. It may not have been a TV show in Antigua, but it's a start that hopefully will lead to something else down the road. I don't think we are set up for things that will skyrocket us to success right away. Because if we are, where's the journey? Where's the learning, and making mistakes, and finding ourselves through our experiences that's supposed to happen in our twenties? If we all received six figure jobs right after graduation, life would be pretty bland because there would be nothing to work toward.<br />
<br />
So this seems to be the time in life when there are ups and downs, invitations and rejections, clear headedness and confusion. Later in life though, when our life's journey has led us right where we are supposed to be, we'll look back at this time and understand that everything happened for a reason.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-50947356695616407062010-08-26T09:46:00.000-07:002010-08-26T09:46:22.425-07:00Play NiceWorking in the restaurant industry, you can imagine the less than favorable patrons that that often permeate my workplace. When you go to dinner, I think you should generally be in a good mood. You have someone waiting on you hand and foot, you're probably with family or friends, the least you could do is be nice to your server...right? <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, that's not always the case.<br />
<br />
However, last week, one of Inlet Seafood's patrons happenned to be four-time Oscar nominee, Julianne Moore. As fate would have it, she was seated in my section of tables. I was beyond excited. I'm a huge fan of her work and I had just seen her latest film, "The Kids Are All Right", which I fell in love with. I approached her table and said hello, mustering up as much confidence as I could and trying to not become too starstruck. <br />
<br />
It was like it happened in slow motion. She looked up at me and smiled the kindest, most genuine smile I have ever seen. I introuduced myself and we began talking. However, I did not once mention that I was a fan of her work or anything too fan-crazy because I assume, being such a great actress, that she gets that a lot. I wanted her to feel comfortable and at ease. Afterward, I jotted down her order and made my way into the kitchen to tell the chef to rush the order out for the VIP. <br />
<br />
What truly moved me though was just how kind and congenial she was. She was not pretentious, condescending or rude, as other celebrities tend to be. She was a beautiful, down to earth person who treated me with courtesy. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: georgia,bookman old style,palatino linotype,book antiqua,palatino,trebuchet ms,helvetica,garamond,sans-serif,arial,verdana,avante garde,century gothic,comic sans ms,times,times new roman,serif;"></span>It made me think about a quote I heard once; "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice." I mean, I think that quote was written for Julianne Moore. Here she is, an award winning actress with oodles of success and fame, and she is still such a kindhearted and friendly woman. It made me think about just how important it is to be nice in life. It can get you so far. Farther than say, talent or skill sometimes.<br />
<br />
Think about it. I'm trying to find a career right now and no one wants to hire someone mean or boring. They want employees who are friendly and nice to be around. I mean, you could have the greatest grades in the world, be the smartest person on the planet, have the brain of a supercomputer, but if you aren't a joy to be around, who's going to want you?<br />
<br />
I think personality and friendliness outshines a lot of things. Don't get me wrong, no one is going to find success if they don't have a good head on their shoulders or have minimal intelligence, but I think people sometimes forget just how far being charismatic and friendly can get you. <br />
<br />
I've always been a pretty happy go-lucky kind of person who values kindness and respect. At the end of the day people want and need to be around other people who treat them warmly. There is not a doubt in my mind that if I had an employee who got his work done perfectly but was neglectful personally, I would exchange him for someone who maybe had to work a little harder at the job, but was nicer. And my assumption is that my potential employers feel similar...<br />
<br />
Moral of the story: be nice to everyone because you never know who you're going to meet. <br />
<br />
So after Mrs. Moore's food was served, I periodically stopped back at her table to check on her to see if "the kids were all right". We ended up joking about wine and laughing together, a moment I will cherish for a long time. And I will remember Julianne Moore the next time I see her on screen not only for being a great actress, but also for being a nice person.Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-91442912139279992582010-08-14T17:28:00.000-07:002010-08-14T17:32:33.524-07:00Don't Fret, We're All In DebtDebt is a funny thing. I mean, the majority of Americans are in some sort of debt whether it be from mortgages or car payments, or in my particular case, student loans, and that's a scary thing. We've built a society around the idea that it's acceptable to get things right away and then pay for them later. Rather bizarre if you think about it. And what's weirder is, a lot of people in my generation who have graduated or are about to graduate from college are going to have some sort of debt to pay off. We're all in this great big boat of debt and at times it feels like we're going under.<br />
<br />
You know why else debt sucks? It doesn't really improve your chances of wooing women. I mean, you'd think it would be such a turn off for ladies to be interested in a guy who's $40,000+ in the hole. But the fact of the matter is, almost everyone, men and women alike, owe money to someone. Creepy.<br />
<br />
Today, as I waited on America's upper crust, I pondered about the general idea of debt; that is "Something that is owed or something that one is bound to pay for" and I realized that my job sort of feeds into that idea of debt. Hungry people bark at me what they want to eat and I bring it to them as soon as they tell me. They don't have to pay for their food right away, but instead they put off paying until the end of the meal. Sure it would be weird to think about paying for food right away at a restaurant because it's not what we're used to, but don't you usually have to pay for something to get it? Not in America.<br />
<br />
This thought arose in my mind when one of the women who was sitting at my table, a party of 11, said to me, "Thank you so much for doing all of this for us. You really accomodated us well." They were a needy bunch and I bent over backward to please them. Frankly, when she uttered that phrase, I was taken aback. Her daughter's fish tacos came out 5 minutes after everyone else's food and I was sure she was going to rally. However, much to my surprise, she did not. She was grateful. But after she told me how appreciative she was, it made me think that she was indebted to me for providing her and her brood with exceptional service. Now honestly, I don't have delusions of grandeur and think I'm the greatest waiter known to mankind (in fact, sometimes I think I'm not even that good of a waiter, but my uncanny ability to smile through anything and talk my way into peoples' hearts helps me out) but the woman felt like she owed me something, which was interesting. <br />
<br />
It turned out, the kindly family tipped me extra after I added the gratuity onto their bill. <br />
<br />
So, debt. It's everywhere, all around us, lurking behind every American Express card and palatial mansion. It's interwoven in our culture into things we do not even think twice about. Though it, according to my collegiate peers, "feels like you are paying for things and can't catch up", it's an all-too-real facet of society that we have to suck up and deal with because it probably will never change. Sounds like a bright future, right? Bring on those student loans, baby...Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54776881728319229.post-64108827793075922422010-08-11T11:11:00.000-07:002010-08-11T13:13:46.703-07:00Waiting Tables While Waiting For Dream JobSo, I'm a recent college grad and everyone knows what that means...I'm jobless, careerless, and money-less. I studied Journalism and Communications in college, which I utterly enjoyed, but now the time has come to stray away from my college fun and all-night-cram-sessions and dive full force into the "real world"; whatever that is.<br />
<br />
In a last ditch attempt to squeeze in one last summer vacation before I enter the land of bills, taxes, and all the other grown up responsibilities along the same vein, I escaped to Montauk, NY, the perfect beachside paradise at the very end of Long Island. I scored an incredible job waiting tables at Inlet Seafood, a delicious seafood restaurant resting on the banks of the Long Island Sound. Sounds incredible, right? Well, I can't lie, it is pretty awesome. The money is great, the people are a ton of fun, and whenever I go into work a celebrity sighting is not uncommon. In fact, I made special friends in Jerry O'Connell and Rebecca Romign, who frequent Inlet Seafood when they're in town. Hearing them call my name and giving Jerry a casual handshake like we've known each other for years really lifted my spirits. I felt cooler than probably anyone I ever knew. I just hope they remember me when I see them on the red carpet some day...<br />
<br />
It's a charmed life, or so I'm told. However, my real focus is on what's going to happen next. <br />
<br />
In this job climate, prospective employers aren't exactly breaking down the door with job offers. I mean, I worked very hard for my degree, but I can't help thinking that all my hard work was in vain. Who's going to hire my bachelor's degree over an industry professional with 20+ years in the biz? <br />
<br />
If nothing else, it motivates me to be the best I can be and always be on top of my game and ready to network. I'm usually such an optimistic person, but the daunting thought of waiting tables forever is permeating my mind. Don't get me wrong, walking away with butt-loads cash every night is rewarding, but I went to college and I want to put my hard earned (and expensive) degree to good use. <br />
<br />
Which brings up another fun fact: student loans. Boy, am I looking forward to that treat. In just a few short months I'll be getting calls about owing money to the government. Good thing those celebs tip well; I'm saving almost every dollar I can spare.<br />
<br />
So until that date with destiny when my career path starts unfolding, I'm waiting in the Hamptons. I'm waiting tables and waiting, quite literally, for the opportunity to kick start my career!Kyle Langanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16893283908008692149noreply@blogger.com3