I have always liked spicy foods. My tastes run the gauntlet but my favorites are hot, bitter and sour. I am not crazy about sweet, but I can tolerate it. Early in my working career, I had the reputation of being able to eat anything no matter how hot and spicy it was. People would bring in things to work that they could not eat and most were just "tangy" to me. However, I vividly recall an incident when a fellow named Johnson (a name that I am sure was changed from its Eastern European origin somewhere along the way) brought in this purple colored concoction and said to me, "I hear you like hot foods." Rising to the challenge, I said, "Yes I do. It can't be hot enough for me." Johnson said, "Well, try this" and gave me a teaspoon of the mixture. I knew immediately that I was in trouble, but I maintained my composure and said, "That's pretty good. Thanks!" and I turned and walked toward the Engineering office. I could feel him gaping at me in total disbelief. I tried to walk calmly, but sweat was beginning to pour down my face. I thought my head was going to burst into flames. I entered the front door of the Engineering office and went directly out the back door to the restroom and guzzled cold water. When my breathing came back to normal, I washed and dried my face, straightened my tie and went back to the office. Later I saw Johnson again and he said, "I can't believe you ate that. We usually put just a teaspoon full in a whole pot of (some Easter European dish)" I never told him how it had affected me and from then on he would tell everyone of my ability to handle spicy foods. I became a legend in the Division although the experience almost killed me! I look back on this incident and shudder. It was all a part of being immature.
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