Today is my last day of work at the best job I ever had. I was a
ramp worker for a major airline in Las Vegas. I am being laid off in
the Great Purge of 2008: the massive airline cutbacks triggered by
astronomical fuel prices.
Before you cry for me, I assure you that losing the best job I
ever had is one of the best things that ever happened to me. One of
the perks of working for an airline is that you get to fly free (or
nearly free) wherever your airline goes. The only downer is that
they also make you “work” on a regular schedule, which severely
cuts into ones vacation time. Now, thanks to the negotiations of my
union, I get to keep my basic flight benefits during my furlough
period—for up to three years or until I am rehired—without the
inconvenience of work. My only burden now is not having any money to
travel with, but it still feels like I have won the lottery.
Zen
and the Art of Baggage Handling
A long but interesting look at baggage handling and the perks of being
on, and off, the job.
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