February 28, 2025: The Steak Nights

I attended a small college in rural northeast Georgia.

The cafeteria was modest but the hardworking staff always served up meals that tasted like home. And one evening a year, usually when spring flowers bloomed, they did something amazing — they moved their entire kitchen operation outdoors. 

There, on rows of sizzling grills, they cooked steaks for every student. Big, thick, juicy ones. Some of the best I’ve ever had. 

Because college kids rarely had fancy food, we felt like royalty. The team even set up long tables across the grass quad so we could dine together under the open sky.

That was years ago. But “steak night” still holds a certain magic.

Tonight was one of those nights. We celebrated a friend’s birthday at a local restaurant, and for three hours, we ate, talked, and laughed. Once again, I enjoyed a prime cut with good company.

I’ve learned that what’s on a plate isn’t the main draw. But the most important part? Who’s around the table.

Here’s to shared feasts with the ones you cherish, whether it be Filet Mignon or Vienna sausages.