This two minute video about a paper airplane took me through a surprising range of emotion. It was after the second time I viewed the video I realized my emotions weren’t for the airplane but for myself.

I’m not sure who originally said this, but there is a quote that goes something like, “In order to be great at your job, you must always be willing to lose your job.” Greatness in the workplace often comes from bucking the system, speaking truth to power, challenging the status quo. And I usually support these actions. But not always.

This economy is bad. Layoffs are mounting. I believe you have to be able to face yourself in the mirror. That means standing up for what you believe in. But we all believe in a lot of things, some of which contradict one another. In a time like this believing in having a paycheck and supporting your family can supersede challenging the most recent corporate policy or providing developmental feedback to your boss.

It is important to strive for greatness, but know this. At times like these I don’t begrudge anyone their decision to keep a low profile. So long as no one is doing anything illegal this is a time to use your judgment. That may mean letting the status remain quo, and holding onto your job to strive for greatness another day.

Okay. The bacon log of which I wrote last week was indeed an exercise in ridiculous excess. That said, it did taste good (in fact it was sublime).

The splurge is an interesting experience. Here is my take. When we are out of control on a splurge, be it on food, alcohol, shopping, anger, you name your vice, it doesn’t feel good before, during, or after. Yet I don’t recommend to anyone to try to lead an ascetic life. I like ice cream and wine and shopping and video games. There are lots of things I just am not willing to give up in their entirety. However, I am working on intentionality.

So the excess of the bacon log was a bit moronic. But I didn’t have seconds and I very likely will never make it again (or at least not for a long time). I believe in excess, so long as it’s in moderation.