Dear friends,
It’s been a short work week. And it’s been a long work week if you know what I mean. On this Thursday from the archive, I’m offering a reflection on the work-a-day world that reminds us it’s tough all over.
With gratitude {for Thursday, which is one step away from TGIF},
Joan, who stayed up until 2:00 am last night working on budget then, oy, dreamed about numbers all night long
Of Working Moms. And Dads.
First published June 24, 2009
I’ve said more than few times I don’t talk about work in this space.
But I’m going to talk about it a little today because 1) it’s all I’m doing these days, and 2) I realized last night everybody’s work is pretty much the same.
I mentioned a few posts ago that I’m working on a special assignment that is requiring additional focus and time . . . time that is keeping me away from this space. Without going into too much detail, let’s just say I transferred to a different division in my company. So in addition to a new assignment, I’m learning a new product line.
Last night at dinner, Parker asked me how the new assignment is going. I said “Fine.” (For the record, I despise talking about work at home.)
Unsatisfied, he pressed for more detail and I demurred. Finally, I realized what was really on his mind.
Perks.
I don’t work in an auto dealership, but if I did, Parker asked me the equivalent of “So, in your spare time, do you get to drive the cars?”
This teenage notion of the work-a-day world made me laugh out loud and all I could say in response is “I don’t have any spare time.”
“But what do you do all day?” he pleaded.
“Talk. Talk. Talk,” I said. Then for good measure I added “Persuade. Persuade. Persuade. It’s pretty simple, really.”
Mr. Mom chuckled this time. “Sounds exactly like my job,” he noted.
The joke was lost on Parker. All he could say is “Whadya mean?”
“Think about it,” Mr. Mom explained. “Parker, time to get up. Parker, have you fed the animals? Parker, make your bed. Parker, why don’t you put your laundry away? Parker, mow the lawn or you won’t get your allowance. Talk and persuade. All day long.”
And suddenly, I was glad I have my job and Mr. Mom has his.
I can talk a blue streak. But I’m not nearly persuasive enough to threaten Mr. Mom’s job security.
Debt of Gratitude 