Life Outside the Office

I must admit that since I was involuntarily released from The Office last November, I have had some positive things happen to me. I’ve expounded on the negatives in my blog (http://lifeinobamanation.wordpress.com) over the past six months, but there are many positives outside an office. I’m untethered to live a life.

Last night I attended Metro Public Works and Metro Public Schools Custodians of the Year awards. The awards are special because the students and faculty of Metro Public Schools nominate their school custodians. When I was in public school almost a half century ago, custodians were called janitors. Unfortunately, these employees still clean up the vomit and the trash students and teachers spew out throughout the school day. Fortunately, the staff and students recognize and appreciate the efforts of their custodians.

I was struck that one custodian was described as a teacher by one student. Possibly in these days, the man did possess a degree from a college, but more likely he was just a great example and role model to his students. The gentleman had a great smile and a great sense of humor as he accepted his award. These are traits I admire in anyone.

While I have always tried to be a decent human being to others, it is becoming more apparent to me as an unemployed person the nice things that I can do for others and animals, when I am not totally focused on office trivia such as budgets and deadlines. I mean in the end, do these things really matter?

This week I made an extra effort to find a home for an abandoned cat. In the past, the demands of The Office would have thwarted these efforts. I reported an illegal dumping of drywall spackle in the storm drain outside my suburban home. Although I cannot find the person responsible, I have drawn attention to a problem that pollutes our water supply.

Most importantly, last night I witnessed individuals being honored for doing a job well by those who they serve daily. There was a real love and respect between the audience and the honorees. No matter our station in life, we can make a difference. Even those who are chained to an office chair each day can be freed and thank someone for a job well done.

P.S. After writing this, I do remember spending hours in The Office trying to gnaw the chains off my legs. Or I actually felt like that on many days.