Fiction? Hmmm ... alas, I think that it was. But then again, there's no way to be entirely sure. Either way, stranger things than this have actually happened. Wouldn't that make a good "ask hubski" thread? Tell us the story of the most surreal thing that ever really happened to you.

I do agree that one should be offered martinis upon arriving in an office. Or scotch, maybe. Maybe our society's approach to business would be much more broad minded, kind, and cognizant of extra-financial consequences if we were simply allowed to slow down, relax, and enjoy a bit of communal cheer with our colleagues mid-workday. Then again, we might all sleep through the middle afternoon. Which in turn might also make us behave more humanly.

It doesn't seem likely to happen anytime soon, sadly. Our culture is, if anything, increasingly fear/guilt/caution driven, which is intriguing as we are increasingly (statistically) not participants in those religions commonly cited as sources for guilt complexes. Then again, perhaps the emerging state religion is that of corporate compliance.

But I'm far from despairing. I try to change my small corner of the world by offering libations to everyone who strays into the line of my hospitality. Granted, my workplace regards such things differently than do most. But home is a great marshaling space for such social shifts too. And whenever I receive an incredulous glance, a nervous titter, or a "but it's not yet 3:30!" in response to such an offer, I smile and pour my guest a cup of coffee. Or water. Or fresca. (Just kidding. I've never bought a fresca in my life).

For de-stressing beverages that are workplace friendly, there are some teas you might want to consider. I'm investigating Kava root teas for their relaxing effects which don't impair motor skills, and don't seem to involve sleepiness. Rooibos is also becoming a favorite. It seems to energize even while it renders one serene. Of course, then you're the guy who's always offering people tea. Bottom line? Workplace protocols are straight-up fascist.