Like the fair-minded progressive that I was, I thought a $15 minimum wage was an absolute good.

Then, I had a head-on collision with reality.

It's a funny thing about reality. It just is. You can't wish it away.

So here is my cautionary tale.

For over three decades, I had a good job working as a server.

I have worked in some amazing award-winning restaurants in Seattle.

I enjoyed the work, met wonderful people, and I was making really good money.

I wasn't making much per hour, that's true.

But in my business, the magic is in tips.

On a typical night, I would make on average $25 to $50 an hour.

Believe me, I earned it. I took pride in my work.

I wanted every dining experience to be a memorable one for my guests.

I also loved my job for this reason.

I had flexibility. I could plan my work schedule.

That was very important to me because I had a growing son.

It was a good life.

Then, in 2015, the Seattle City Council raised the minimum wage from $9.47 to $15 an hour, a 58% hike.

Great for the working stiff, right?

Well, hang on, because here comes Mr. Reality.

The business owner, the person who signs the checks, has to find a way to pay for this massive new expense.

For Walmart or Microsoft or a large restaurant chain, this might not be a problem.

For a local restaurant owner, it's a nightmare.

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