In the quiet hours of the morning, I think about the choices I've made and the people in my life. Basically the same thing, in some respects. The current status of one's existence.

My friend Wing leaves tomorrow for Hong Kong, indefinitely, perhaps permanently. As a chef for Gordon Ramsay, at his restaurant at the London Hotel in West Hollywood, he's hit a landmark for success that people in my social circles can only admire. He's been here and there, recently crashing at my place, deciding on his next course of action. Eventually, he 'settled' on this position as executive chef for a high profile restaurant in the heart of HK.

He's a person who's always looking for the next step, the next plateau up... one that's currently not entirely visible from his vantage point. And at times, I think he forgets to look about him, and just enjoy the view, instead of planning for the next giant leap. Lennon probably said it best: "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans." There are moments when it's hard to be around someone like that, someone who can't really sit still and enjoy, I don't know, just breathing. Or the weather. But on the other hand, there are moments when I am caught up in his euphoria of expecting the best of the unknown, the rush of diving headlong into a venture without hesitation. The energy striving, because in his world striving will -- without a molecule of doubt -- lead anyone to success.

I need that kind of irrational optimism. Balance that with the down-to-earth view of my own self constraints, and it's really a natural high. Kind of like an inspirational Red Bull for the spirit... but with longevity.

I'm am affected by his uniqueness, and I'll take away what I think is best for me. Even now, I am making concessions. There are real changes here, and I hope the wake it leaves won't adversely affect the oncoming path by unforeseen ricochet.