Walk a Mile in My Shoes

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I sometimes wonder why people work at jobs they hate. I love working. Before I was laid off, I looked forward each day to going to work. Maybe I didn’t make a big impact on the world, but I felt that what I did actually made a difference for somebody. And since I was laid off, I still face each temporary job with the hope that I can do something to help somebody. Believe me, the things I’ve done have been far from glamorous. Indeed, some of the people I’ve come in contact with seem to look down on me condescendingly, and a few have been downright contemptuous because of some perceived superiority that they have over me. Still, I smile and treat them as I would like to be treated – with kindness and respect. And I have taken on a new level of appreciation for those who also work in low-paying positions. Sure, I don’t go out to eat as often as I used to, but when I do, I still manage to leave a decent tip, because I know how much that means – not just in terms of extra money, but also to let the person know that what they do is truly appreciated. Have you ever thought about what your life would be like if your roles were reversed with the people you see every day? If you see me running a cash register, or flipping burgers, or ushering you to your luxury skybox, would you consider trading places with me and letting me see the same smile that I am giving you? I love my job – how about you?