Fired and Unfazed
Between the ages of 18 and 19, I experienced two job dismissals. The first occurred when I was fired from Burger King for calling in sick. Living with my roommate Bev on West 98th Street, we moved back to our New Jersey hometowns during the summer break. To reconnect, Bev invited me to see the band Boston at Madison Square Garden. Determined to attend the concert, I called in sick at Burger King, not realizing that my crew chief was present in the massive crowd at the venue. My decision to attend the concert eventually led to my dismissal.
New Beginnings and Uncertainties
Returning to the city after the summer, I secured a new job at a restaurant called Brew and Burger. As an 18-year-old, it was an ideal position, and the tips were lucrative. Unaware of sexual harassment issues at that time, we, the girls, endured the challenges and covered our rent with our tip earnings. I intended to work at this job until my college graduation.
A Life-Changing Decision
Shortly before my 19th birthday, my friend Dee Dee and I planned to attend the New Year’s Eve party at a club called Ipanema. However, a last-minute change in the restaurant’s schedule forced us to work late on New Year’s Eve. Despite the manager’s ultimatum to stay or be fired, we chose to leave to celebrate. As a result, I lost my job but had no regrets about my decision.
A Job Shift and Unexpected Encounter
I found myself in a less desirable job at Zum Zum, a low-end diner with challenging customers and low tips. Realizing I couldn’t sustain myself financially, I eventually returned to Brew and Burger after Dee Dee encouraged me to do so.
The Surprise Meeting
One day, I received a call from a woman claiming to work for Zum Zum’s parent company. She summoned me for a meeting, and upon arrival, she questioned whether I had been spying on Zum Zum for Brew and Burger. I couldn’t believe the absurdity of the accusation. The encounter taught me that corporate individuals can be irrational and fearful.
Trusting Your Instincts
As I walked home, I reflected on the situation and realized the importance of trusting my instincts. You don’t need to reach a certain age to listen to your gut and discern between genuine individuals and those who lack wisdom. This encounter became a memorable lesson, reminding me that not all grown-ups have their lives together, and fear can lead people to act irrationally.
A Playful Imagination
Reflecting humorously on the situation, I contemplate adding “Corporate Spy” to my past job titles on LinkedIn, for who knows, perhaps I unknowingly engaged in industrial espionage back in 1979. Nonetheless, I have learned to follow my instincts and not be swayed by unfounded accusations.
Conclusion
My brief encounter as the 18-year-old spy taught me the value of trusting my instincts and discerning between genuine individuals and those acting irrationally out of fear. As you navigate your own journey, remember that your intuition is your best guide.
Comments